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.