For our study of the American Revolution, I read “1776” by David McCullough to Bethany. Due to lack of consistency in our reading times, it took us a very long time to get through it but we recently managed to finish.
David McCullough is a contemporary author, born in Pennsylvania in July of 1933. He is married and the father of five children. He has written several books about history including “John Adams” and “Mornings on Horseback”.
“1776” was published in 2005. The book that I read was published by Simon and Schuster in 2007. The actual book is 243 pages. Being the “illustrated edition” this book is unique by having copies of many of the original source documents in envelopes, between the pages. From letters by George Washington to the original printing of the Declaration of Independence, General Howe’s reports to those in charge in England, the copies are of immense interest (with transcriptions in the back of the book, for those who can’t read the handwriting on the copies).
“1776” is a minute account of the Revolutionary war during the same year. Based entirely on original documents and letters, Mr. McCullough writes with animation and interest. Beginning in the end of 1775, he follows events, ending with an American victory at the end of 1776. From the Battle of Bunker Hill to crossing the Delaware at night and surprising the Hessians, the movements of the two armies are fully documented.
I liked this book very much and enjoyed reading it. I liked how Mr. McCullough, showed both sides of the war. He constantly showed the American’s perspective and the English perspective regarding the same matters.
I would highly recommend this book!
To the KING be all the glory!
That’s neat that they gave the ‘orginal’ letters, so to speak. And that they gave transcriptions. (That would be handy.)
(And at least your being consistant with your blogging! ;) )