The American Heritage Book of The Revolution

The authors are to be commended for their ability to describe and detail the events of 1775-81 in lively and readable manner. The vivid descriptions of the key players caused me to seek their biographies. If I were a history teacher I would make this book required reading as a worthwhile overview of the period. One aspect of our revolution that has always intrigued me is the role France played. Without the infusion of French gold, weapons and eventually direct military assistance our revolution would not of succeeded. This point has been sadly overlooked, downplayed or "forgotten" by the casual survey courses taught in High School. This book clearly make the point that without France we may still be part of the British Empire. Highly recommended as an engaging introduction to the military and political events that resulted in America's independence from England.

Many Americans know the American Revolution only as a war in which George Washington defeated the British and, thereby, won American Independence. The true story, which we read in this book, is much more than that.The "American Revolution" provides an interesting survey of the military aspects of our War for Independence. The background political factors which lead to the Declaration of Independence, both American and British, are presented, but once the Continental Army is established the book tends to focus primarily on military matters. One of the things I like about is book is that it gives thorough coverage to American, British and French personalities and initiatives in the war.Another thing which I like about this work is its ability to impart an understanding of the outline of the War, both chronologically and geographically. The main events and characters are revealed both in their successes as well as in their flaws. While illustrating his greatness, errors committed by Washington are not overlooked. This book places the pieces of the story which we have often heard into their proper places in the puzzle. All of it, from the early British evacuation of Boston through the Northern campaigns to the shift of action to the Southern theatres to the final evacuation of New York, now seems to make sense. The campaign of George Rogers Clark which won the West (now Midwest) for the new republic is also given fair coverage.This book makes clear that, not withstanding the immense sacrifice of the Americans, victory was possible only because of the intervention of the French army and fleet.We are repeatedly reminded that American sentiment was not totally in support of the war. military actions by Tories in support of the Crown, although largely ineffective, are given adequate attention throughout the narrative.All in all, I enjoyed this interesting introduction to this crucial, but all too little known war.

Following a recent visit to Yorktown, I wanted to know why it warranted so much attention. Bruce Lancaster has done an exceptional job of building a picture that helped me truly appreciate the significance of Yorktown.I love Lancaster's clear, rapid narrative of the war and surrounding events. Sure, he has some flare that may not be in vogue these days, but that is one reason why this book is so good. He writes with conviction and style, bringing the characters in the war to life. He also does an outstanding job of helping the reader piece together the critical events in the war. This is a book that makes you want to read more about the period.

Recently, there have been a number of histories released on the founding of our nation, including the books "Founding Brothers," and "John Adams." Both books cover, in detail, the intellectual revolution, i.e., the great experiment in liberty and self government. Many books on another seminal event, in our history, the Civil War, focus on military history, i.e., the history of military battles and campaigns. Prime examples of such authors of Civil War military history are Shelby Foote and Bruce Catton. This great history of the revolution is primarily a military history. It's true that the revolution of ideas and democracy makes for fascinating reading but, it's great to have a book such as this one which brings forth the drama of the great battles such as Monmouth, Saratoga, Trenton, etc.Lancaster brings these battles to life and tells fascinating stories about the generals and miltary personel involved. The war might well have been lost if it had not been for the help of the French. I found, particularly interesting the tale of French general Rochambeau who arrived in Newport, RI with his troops but, due to a lack of coordination, no role was assigned to them. While the Continetal armies were in Virginia, Rochambeau languished in Newport. However, when the situation got straightened out, and the French troops were on the move to join the Continentals, that pretty much signaled the end as the mere threat of the French was nearly enough to end the war. As Corwallis hunkered down in Yorktown, the French presence along with the Continentals made the end a foregone conclusion.Another fascinating story is the Battle at Monmouth in which General Washington received word that General Charles Lee was retreating. Washington hastened to Monmouth, sent Lee to the rear, thereby relieving Lee of his command, and took over command of the troops himself. Lancaster's account of this event is lively and makes for wonderful reading. He truly brings to life the personalities involved. I recommend this book which has recently been re-released.

Wow