“The year 1776, celebrated as the birth year of the nation and for the signing of the Declaration of Independence, was for those who carried the fight for independence forward a year of all-too-few victories, of sustained suffering, disease, hunger, desertion, cowardice, disillusionment, defeat, terrible discouragement, and fear, as they would never forget, but also of phenomenal courage and bedrock devotion to country, and that, too they would never forget.”–David McCullough
David McCullough is an accomplished historian, writer, and two time Pulitzer Prize winner. Every book I have read of his is first rate and this book is no exception. 1776 is an in depth look at the people and events of that pivotal year in American history–from George Washington to the men from all walks of life who volunteered as soldiers to the British who viewed them as traitors.
McCullough’s extensive research illuminates the internal discussions and decisions on both the American and British sides tells the stories of many of those who fought alongside Washington.
This is a fascinating book and a good reminder of how much was at stake during those initial months following the Declaration of Independence. This is a must read for all those interested in American history.
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