In the summer of 1776, there was a noticeable age and experience gap between British and American soldiers. British soldiers typically averaged about 28 years old and had around seven years of military experience, reflecting their long-standing professional army. This experience likely contributed to their combat effectiveness and tactical knowledge during conflicts.

In contrast, the American soldiers were significantly younger, with an average age of 20 and only six months of military experience. This lack of experience among American troops was a notable factor in the Revolutionary War, highlighting the challenges they faced against a more seasoned British military. Joseph J. Ellis, in his book "Revolutionary Summer: The Birth of American Independence," illustrates this disparity in a critical period of American history.