Written by: David McCullough
Submitted By: Jonathan Wood
The latest work from respected American historian and author David McCullough. This book examines a single, critical year in the American Revolutionary War, rather than the entire war itself. McCullough writes with objectivity, giving both American and British viewpoints, avoiding an overtly American bias. For example, King George III, who is often portrayed by historians as foolish and arrogant, is shown in a much more likeable, realistic light. The book mainly deals with George Washington, a larger than life figure in American history whose myth and legend often overshadow the facts. McCullough examines both his strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of his closest military advisors, Generals Henry Knox and Nathanial Greene. All three men had very little or no military experience prior to the rebellion. The main British players, Generals Howe, Clinton, Cornwallis, and the Hessian leaders are also discussed, as are several key battles during the year. One of the things as an American I most enjoyed were the British observations from persons such as Ambrose Serle, a civilian secretary to Lord Admiral Howe. Regarding the Declaration of Independence he wrote "The villany and the madness of these deluded people...A more impudent, false, and atrocious proclamation was never fabricated by the hands of man." 1776 is very well written, and best of all avoids being long and boring, which so many historical works seem to often be.
