1776 by David McCulloughMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
As many this was a pivotal year in American history. It was also a year which the true birth of George Washington came alive. Just in this year alone he could have been known as the father of the country. It was a year of highs and lows for both the country and George Washington. In the spring General Washington drove the British out of Boston when by shear will power Henry Knox brings captured artillery from northwestern New England (what is now Vermont). In winter through snow and ice covered rivers. Sets them up almost over night and scares the redcoats out of Boston. The victory is short lived though as the next target is New York City. The British regroup and along with some mercenary Hessian troops (from Germany) invade New York. General Washington is outnumbered and out Generaled unfortunately. He regroups his beleaguered troops in New Jersey. This is truly the time that tried men's souls( along with George Washington). Through the recent defeats, lack of confidence of subordinates(One of whom was captured),lacking money, food, clothes and time as many of his troops enlistments were up as of the end of the year also. Through shear will power his ragtag group crossed the now famed Delaware river Christmas night, during a Northeaster keep in mind, and surprised a Hessian Garrison nearby as the slept off their Christmas hangovers and captured most of them with only two men lost, who actually were lost to weather being frozen to death. Though not a huge battle it did prove enough to keep the Continental Army intact andin turn proved to be the turning point in the war.
View all my reviews
