Ethan Allen (1738–1789) was an American Revolutionary War hero, frontiersman, and one of the founders of Vermont. Born in Litchfield, Connecticut, Allen grew up in a frontier environment and received an education that included philosophical teachings. He became involved in land disputes in the New Hampshire Grants (modern-day Vermont), where he led the Green Mountain Boys, a militia group formed to resist New York's claims over the territory.
Allen's most famous military achievement was the capture of Fort Ticonderoga on May 10, 1775, alongside Benedict Arnold. This early victory provided the Continental Army with much-needed artillery. Later, Allen attempted to take Montreal but was captured by British forces and held as a prisoner until 1778.
After his release, Allen returned to Vermont, which had declared independence in 1777. He worked to secure Vermont's recognition as a separate state, even engaging in controversial negotiations with British authorities. Allen was also a writer and philosopher, publishing works like Reason: The Only Oracle of Man, which criticized organized religion.
Allen's legacy is tied to his role in Vermont's formation and his contributions to the Revolutionary War. He remains a celebrated figure in American history.
