Israel Putnam (January 7, 1718 – May 29, 1790) was an American army general officer and Freemason, popularly known as "Old Put", who fought with distinction at the Battle of Bunker Hill (1775) during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783). His reckless courage and fighting spirit became known far beyond Connecticut's borders through the circulation of folk legends in the American colonies and states celebrating his exploits.