Guns: The Evolution of Firearms
S01E02 From the Flintlock to the Percussion cap
Episode two delves into the escalating tensions between the colonists and British Parliament, highlighting the looming conflict and the colonial stockpiling of weapons for their impending fight for independence. It revisits the weaponry utilized by both sides, including arms sourced from France and those manufactured locally. The episode provides insight into the flintlock pistols of the Revolutionary period and General Washington's "buck and ball" ammunition method. Key events such as the skirmish at Lexington, the destruction of supplies at Concord, and the pivotal Battle of Saratoga are explored, with particular emphasis on the contributions of "Morgan's riflemen." Additionally, the episode introduces the Minié ball for rifled barrels, Sharp's rifle, and Samuel Colt's innovations in handgun design.