I just finished reading 1776, by David McCullough. It follows George Washington and the Continental Army through the years 1775 and 1776, up to the battle of Trenton.

I am a big history buff, and am especially interested in the founding fathers and the revolutionary period, so I was very excited about this book. McCullough must have done an extraordinary amount of research to put together the details that he presents here. The story is presented very well, is an excellent read, and kept me entertained.

1776 covers all of the battles and skirmishes of these first years of the war. Everyone is probably familiar with Bunker Hill and Trenton, but the information provided on the lesser known aspects of the war, such as the siege of Dorchester Heights, helps put Washington’s strategy and the troop’s moral in perspective.

Also intriguing is the attention given to the British perspective. We get to read excerpts of King George III’s speech to parliament declaring the colonies in rebellion, along with the opinions of members of parliament who were opposed to the war.

Lots of coverage is given to Washington, and his generals Nathanial Greene and Henry Knox. Along with Washington’s brilliance, we also see several of his mistakes and instances of indecisiveness.

I am sure that anyone who, like me, takes an interest in the Revolution would love 1776. If you’ve read it, leave a comment and let me know what you thought!