What do you think?
Rate this book
American Revolutionary War #2
The Glorious Cause
In Rise to Rebellion , bestselling author Jeff Shaara captured the origins of the American Revolution as brilliantly as he depicted the Civil War in Gods and Generals and The Last Full Measure . Now he continues the amazing saga of how thirteen colonies became a nation, taking the conflict from kingdom and courtroom to the bold and bloody battlefields of war.
It was never a war in which the outcome was obvious. Despite their spirit and stamina, the colonists were outmanned and outfought by the brazen British army. General George Washington found his troops trounced in the battles of Brooklyn and Manhattan and retreated toward Pennsylvania. With the future of the colonies at its lowest ebb, Washington made his most fateful to cross the Delaware River and attack the enemy. The stunning victory at Trenton began a saga of victory and defeat that concluded with the British surrender at Yorktown, a moment that changed the history of the world.
The despair and triumph of America’s first great army is conveyed in scenes as powerful as any Shaara has written, a story told from the points of view of some of the most memorable characters in American history. There is George Washington, the charismatic leader who held his army together to achieve an unlikely victory; Charles Cornwallis, the no-nonsense British general, more than a match for his colonial counterpart; Nathaniel Greene, who rose from obscurity to become the finest battlefield commander in Washington’s army; The Marquis de Lafayette, the young Frenchman who brought a soldier’s passion to America; and Benjamin Franklin, a brilliant man of science and philosophy who became the finest statesman of his day.
From Nathan Hale to Benedict Arnold, William Howe to “Light Horse” Harry Lee, from Trenton and Valley Forge, Brandywine and Yorktown, the American Revolution’s most immortal characters and poignant moments are brought to life in remarkable Shaara style. Yet, The Glorious Cause is more than just a story of the legendary six-year struggle. It is a tribute to an amazing people who turned ideas into action and fought to declare themselves free. Above all, it is a riveting novel that both expands and surpasses its beloved author’s best work.
It was never a war in which the outcome was obvious. Despite their spirit and stamina, the colonists were outmanned and outfought by the brazen British army. General George Washington found his troops trounced in the battles of Brooklyn and Manhattan and retreated toward Pennsylvania. With the future of the colonies at its lowest ebb, Washington made his most fateful to cross the Delaware River and attack the enemy. The stunning victory at Trenton began a saga of victory and defeat that concluded with the British surrender at Yorktown, a moment that changed the history of the world.
The despair and triumph of America’s first great army is conveyed in scenes as powerful as any Shaara has written, a story told from the points of view of some of the most memorable characters in American history. There is George Washington, the charismatic leader who held his army together to achieve an unlikely victory; Charles Cornwallis, the no-nonsense British general, more than a match for his colonial counterpart; Nathaniel Greene, who rose from obscurity to become the finest battlefield commander in Washington’s army; The Marquis de Lafayette, the young Frenchman who brought a soldier’s passion to America; and Benjamin Franklin, a brilliant man of science and philosophy who became the finest statesman of his day.
From Nathan Hale to Benedict Arnold, William Howe to “Light Horse” Harry Lee, from Trenton and Valley Forge, Brandywine and Yorktown, the American Revolution’s most immortal characters and poignant moments are brought to life in remarkable Shaara style. Yet, The Glorious Cause is more than just a story of the legendary six-year struggle. It is a tribute to an amazing people who turned ideas into action and fought to declare themselves free. Above all, it is a riveting novel that both expands and surpasses its beloved author’s best work.
638 pages, Hardcover
Published October 29, 2002
About the author
Jeff Shaara
51 books2,248 followersJEFF SHAARA is the award-winning, New York Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of seventeen novels, including Rise to Rebellion and The Rising Tide, as well as Gods and Generals and The Last Full Measure—two novels that complete his father's Pulitzer Prize-winning classic, The Killer Angels. Shaara was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, grew up in Tallahassee, Florida, and lives in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 453 reviews
May 28, 2015
Another book that I should've reviewed days ago. Too much work .... too much going on ....
The Glorious Cause continues the story of Franklin, Adams, Washington, Cornwallis, and more through the climax of the American Revolution. This is Shara's Schtick. He picks a few key players in great historical events and follows them through those events. As a reader you gain insight into the thinking, the strategy, the plots of these great people. The insight is fantastic.
The approach is also a great weakness of the book. It does follow those great men, but it does leave untouched what I find more intriguing about historical fiction. What about the individual farmer - the small landholder or craftsman? History is not necessarily about the great and powerful. In many ways I like to read about the small person who is caught up in great events and somehow manages to shape those events through their pluck and luck. Wouldn't it have been cool to place a man or woman at the heart of the Revolution? Stealing British secrets on the sly to influence the course of the conflict? Or what about a Hessian mercenary who decides to desert over a shot at his own land? Or an English soldier who is conflicted about what his comrades are doing to drive the colonies away? I'm not saying abandon covering Franklin or Cornwallis, but just add more. (On the note of the great men, I did appreciate the focus on Cornwallis. He comes across very sympathetically.)
Besides enjoying the stories, I also enjoy historical fiction because I learn about new periods and events that I was more or less ignorant of. In the case of The Glorious Cause, I had a first hand seat following the British army's Southern Strategy. Basically, with the war in New York, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts at a stand still, the British sought to end the Revolution in the Southern Colonies and then work their way North. I had the chance to be at the Battle of Cowpens (yes, a real battle) and at the final surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. Pretty cool stuff.
Three and a half stars out of five. Rounding it down to three based on the fact that I wanted more average Joe, less great man.
The Glorious Cause continues the story of Franklin, Adams, Washington, Cornwallis, and more through the climax of the American Revolution. This is Shara's Schtick. He picks a few key players in great historical events and follows them through those events. As a reader you gain insight into the thinking, the strategy, the plots of these great people. The insight is fantastic.
The approach is also a great weakness of the book. It does follow those great men, but it does leave untouched what I find more intriguing about historical fiction. What about the individual farmer - the small landholder or craftsman? History is not necessarily about the great and powerful. In many ways I like to read about the small person who is caught up in great events and somehow manages to shape those events through their pluck and luck. Wouldn't it have been cool to place a man or woman at the heart of the Revolution? Stealing British secrets on the sly to influence the course of the conflict? Or what about a Hessian mercenary who decides to desert over a shot at his own land? Or an English soldier who is conflicted about what his comrades are doing to drive the colonies away? I'm not saying abandon covering Franklin or Cornwallis, but just add more. (On the note of the great men, I did appreciate the focus on Cornwallis. He comes across very sympathetically.)
Besides enjoying the stories, I also enjoy historical fiction because I learn about new periods and events that I was more or less ignorant of. In the case of The Glorious Cause, I had a first hand seat following the British army's Southern Strategy. Basically, with the war in New York, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts at a stand still, the British sought to end the Revolution in the Southern Colonies and then work their way North. I had the chance to be at the Battle of Cowpens (yes, a real battle) and at the final surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown. Pretty cool stuff.
Three and a half stars out of five. Rounding it down to three based on the fact that I wanted more average Joe, less great man.
September 22, 2022
Shaara's book is the story of the Revolutionary war: the battles, the dithering Congress, the intransigent King George, the privation of the soldiers, the evolving strategy of the continental army and allied state militias. Generals Washington, Knox, Greene, Lafayette and others versus Howe, Clinton, Cornwallis, and Benedict Arnold. It's a novel, but Shaara intends the details to be accurate and authentic, with only historic detail manufactured to smooth the narrative. I was 'taught' about the war when I was in middle school, a useless exercise in memorizing locations and dates of battles. Here is what actually happened, the surprises, the mistakes, the arrogance of the well-trained and experienced British.
War never changes, except in the minutia. Washington's successes are similar to victories by WWII commanders: Guderian in 1940 France and 1941 Ukraine, Rommel in 1941 Libya, Patton in 1944 France. The general theme of the British defeat echoes other wars fought to subjugate a population fighting for their independence: Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Ukraine. It is an obvious lesson that each generation of military leaders ignores: an army can't succeed against a united populace; at best, it can defeat the organized, visible enemy and then spend decades of occupation suppressing rebellions. The victory by Washington and the French at Yorktown is perfectly replayed, albeit with 100 times the brutality, at Stalingrad in 1942-43. Von Paulus's 6th army in Stalingrad, like Cornwallis's force at Yorktown, hold their position while their commanders promise relief and reinforcements that they can't or won't deliver. Both battles mark the point where the aggressor becomes the vanquished.
War never changes, except in the minutia. Washington's successes are similar to victories by WWII commanders: Guderian in 1940 France and 1941 Ukraine, Rommel in 1941 Libya, Patton in 1944 France. The general theme of the British defeat echoes other wars fought to subjugate a population fighting for their independence: Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Ukraine. It is an obvious lesson that each generation of military leaders ignores: an army can't succeed against a united populace; at best, it can defeat the organized, visible enemy and then spend decades of occupation suppressing rebellions. The victory by Washington and the French at Yorktown is perfectly replayed, albeit with 100 times the brutality, at Stalingrad in 1942-43. Von Paulus's 6th army in Stalingrad, like Cornwallis's force at Yorktown, hold their position while their commanders promise relief and reinforcements that they can't or won't deliver. Both battles mark the point where the aggressor becomes the vanquished.
December 8, 2024
Once again Shaara has written a brilliant book detailing the suffering at Valley Forge & the elation of winning the American Revolution. Of particular interest is 2 names that y0u do not hear much about, Nathaniel Greene who took over a supplier for the American troops when they so desperately needed food & clothing & Charles Lee whose cowardice and insubordination
got him court-martialed. General Cornwallis of the British Army is shown to be an honorable man.
Highly recommended.
got him court-martialed. General Cornwallis of the British Army is shown to be an honorable man.
Highly recommended.
July 13, 2017
Just like its prequel, this book brings to life the men who fought for, and against, the American cause. Highly readable, and so well researched that you find yourself forgetting that it’s a novel.
Each chapter is written from a different person’s view, so that you see the conflict from both sides. Each person is shown in all their complexities, their good qualities as well as their flaws.
Another plus, is that the battles are written in such a way to make them palatable to those readers who aren’t war or battle buffs. They’re easy to follow, while still keeping the sense of urgency and dread that the participants must have felt.
What I knew of the Revolution was pretty much what I learned in high school. I knew the basics, but this particular time in history had never been an interest of mine. Washington, Arnold, Greene, Lafayette, Cornwallis. These were just names, place holders for the roles of hero or villain. But after reading these two novels, I’m looking forward to reading biographies of these real and fascinating men.
Each chapter is written from a different person’s view, so that you see the conflict from both sides. Each person is shown in all their complexities, their good qualities as well as their flaws.
Another plus, is that the battles are written in such a way to make them palatable to those readers who aren’t war or battle buffs. They’re easy to follow, while still keeping the sense of urgency and dread that the participants must have felt.
What I knew of the Revolution was pretty much what I learned in high school. I knew the basics, but this particular time in history had never been an interest of mine. Washington, Arnold, Greene, Lafayette, Cornwallis. These were just names, place holders for the roles of hero or villain. But after reading these two novels, I’m looking forward to reading biographies of these real and fascinating men.
September 9, 2026
Solid four stars.
This is the sequel to Rise to Rebellion and covers events in the Revolutionary War from just after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to when Washington resigns his command of the Continental Army at the end of 1783, though most of the fighting ends with the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. The last two years concerned negotiating the peace treaty which took forever in the days when ping-ponging physical letters back and forth across the Atlantic on wind powered ships was the only way to communicate.
I could pretty much copy/paste parts of my Rise to Rebellion review here to cover my thoughts on the writing quality, story structure, etc., for they apply here too. The only addition I'll make is that I noticed Shaara's short, choppy sentences and sentence fragments more this time. It's a stylistic choice I don't always care for, though there's nothing wrong with it. I just think a little bit goes a long way, and there was more than a little bit here. For what it's worth, I'm a huge Dickens fan, and he's the antithesis of short and choppy, so take that into consideration. Personal preference and all that jazz.
As for the events in the book... Wow, what a grade-a shitshow the Revolution was. Congress did a great job getting things started (though that process was also its own shitshow), but after the Declaration was signed, that body was pretty much useless in getting anything done which is something it has in common with Congress today. It didn't understand beans about how to run or finance a war. The conditions at Valley Forge needn't have been as bad as they were. There was plenty of food for the soldiers, but it was rotting away in faraway towns because the quartermaster general was just as worthless as the congress, and nobody could get anything moving.
In the rare event that food was sent, it sometimes arrived spoiled because the wagoners had drained the brine from the pork to lighten the load for the horses. Here's one scene that brought it home to me.
Luckily Washington was less beholden to congress than the Brits were to the King and parliament, because they, too, were useless and did nothing except get in the way and fuck up the whole operation. Add to that incompetent commanders who never failed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, and, well, like I said, shitshow, shitshow. Howe could've destroyed Washington's army multiple times, but he preferred to play it slow and safe and never chased when it was prudent to do so. He preferred exalting in his victory and letting whatever town shower him and his men with lavish treats for several weeks if not the entire winter. Howe loved his comfort. He was eventually replaced by Clinton who did just a little better, but not much. Cornwallis was there for all of it, and though it enraged him, he was excellent at following orders and not venting his spleen. I believe things would've gone differently if Cornwallis had been in charge of the whole affair.
Cornwallis was eventually sent south and given free rein from Clinton, but at the last second Clinton took most of Cornwallis' forces from him to New York where Clinton thought the main action was going to be. He then told Cornwallis to go get some victories believing that the loyalists would rally to the cause. In short, Clinton was an idiot. Cornwallis got the victories on the field, but they weren't worth the cost by a long shot. They were essentially drawn into a fight so we could cut several of their irreplaceable men out of service permanently. Once the Brits got into a more advantageous position on the field, we beat feet, and they were left in possession of a town of absolutely no strategic value whatsoever, filled with their dead and wounded.
Cornwallis eventually got to Virginia, and while he had more leeway than before he still had to follow orders from a general 400 miles away. He never criticized his commanders out loud even if he thought they were nuts; doing such was extremely dangerous for the Brits,[1] but one day he finally broke.
Here he's arranged a campaign on the peninsula and has a pretty good strategy all set.
And I guess that's enough. It would be impossible to discuss everything in this book without using up two or three review spaces, but all the major events are covered though some are just mentioned in passing.
This was told primarily through the eyes of Washington, Greene, Cornwallis, and Benjamin Franklin who is whipping up support for our cause in France. The French show up, eventually, but they're pretty useless too except Lafayette who actually gets some stuff done, and he came way before the rest of them. There's a reason his name is all over DC. Benedict Arnold, Banastre Tarleton, Count Rochambeau, Alexander Hamilton, Frederick Von Steuben, Horatio Gates, Charles Lee, Henry "Light-Horse Harry" Lee (no relation to the aforementioned Charles Lee though he did have a brother named Charles Lee who was later Attorney General for Washington and Adams. Confused? It's okay; just roll with it), Henry Knox, Daniel Morgan, and a few other heavy hitters are all featured as well.
I enjoyed Rise to Rebellion a little more than this, but this was still great. Books about wars and battles tend to get a little repetitive even if all the battles are different. The events in RTR had more variety, and therefore I rate it as a better book, but they should both be read to get the full story, and both are worth it if you're into the American Revolution and looking for a well-told story.
[1]: Washington didn't have this luxury and endured criticism, back-biting, back-stabbing, insubordination, disobeyed orders, and all sorts of affronts to his dignity from start to finish even in congress, and a couple of battles that were lost could've been won if he had had more competent and cooperative subordinates. Yeah, I'm looking at you Charles Lee and Horatio Gates.
This is the sequel to Rise to Rebellion and covers events in the Revolutionary War from just after the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 to when Washington resigns his command of the Continental Army at the end of 1783, though most of the fighting ends with the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. The last two years concerned negotiating the peace treaty which took forever in the days when ping-ponging physical letters back and forth across the Atlantic on wind powered ships was the only way to communicate.
I could pretty much copy/paste parts of my Rise to Rebellion review here to cover my thoughts on the writing quality, story structure, etc., for they apply here too. The only addition I'll make is that I noticed Shaara's short, choppy sentences and sentence fragments more this time. It's a stylistic choice I don't always care for, though there's nothing wrong with it. I just think a little bit goes a long way, and there was more than a little bit here. For what it's worth, I'm a huge Dickens fan, and he's the antithesis of short and choppy, so take that into consideration. Personal preference and all that jazz.
As for the events in the book... Wow, what a grade-a shitshow the Revolution was. Congress did a great job getting things started (though that process was also its own shitshow), but after the Declaration was signed, that body was pretty much useless in getting anything done which is something it has in common with Congress today. It didn't understand beans about how to run or finance a war. The conditions at Valley Forge needn't have been as bad as they were. There was plenty of food for the soldiers, but it was rotting away in faraway towns because the quartermaster general was just as worthless as the congress, and nobody could get anything moving.
In the rare event that food was sent, it sometimes arrived spoiled because the wagoners had drained the brine from the pork to lighten the load for the horses. Here's one scene that brought it home to me.
(Washington and Nathanael Greene) moved into a wide trail, the dirty snow banked high to one side. They were among the cabins now, and Washington saw a small open campfire, unusual, pulled the horse that way. There were four men, and they stood now, surprised, and Washington could see a metal pot hung above the fire, a rising column of steam.Washington and Greene left, and Washington was furious. He sent Greene to the congress to take over as quartermaster general and the congress agreed. Greene did this reluctantly, but he got shit done, and supplies started going where they were supposed to and arriving in fit condition.
"Gentlemen, do not let us disturb you. Are you cooking?"
They glanced at each other, and one man raised a spoon from the pot, poured the dark brown liquid into a small cup.
"Aye, sir. Soup, it is. One of the fellows here got a might lucky chasin' a rabbit. This here pot's done made us several days of good eatin'."
Greene moved the horse forward, closer to the fire, said, "Several days? How big was the rabbit?"
"Oh, the Rabbit's been gone a while now, sir."
The men stirred the bubbling brew, and Washington could see something round and dark, the spoon knocking it with a metallic click.
"What is in the soup, soldier?"
The man moved the object around, said, "That'd be a rock, sir. We always hear tell that there's strength in rocks. We figured if we boil it a while, it might lend something to the soup."
Greene leaned out, looked down into the pot.
"That appears to be... leaves. Seems your soup is a bit... soiled."
The man spooned up the bits of brown.
"Oh, no, sir. Not only leaves, but pine needles as well. The best soup has to have... vegetables."
Luckily Washington was less beholden to congress than the Brits were to the King and parliament, because they, too, were useless and did nothing except get in the way and fuck up the whole operation. Add to that incompetent commanders who never failed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, and, well, like I said, shitshow, shitshow. Howe could've destroyed Washington's army multiple times, but he preferred to play it slow and safe and never chased when it was prudent to do so. He preferred exalting in his victory and letting whatever town shower him and his men with lavish treats for several weeks if not the entire winter. Howe loved his comfort. He was eventually replaced by Clinton who did just a little better, but not much. Cornwallis was there for all of it, and though it enraged him, he was excellent at following orders and not venting his spleen. I believe things would've gone differently if Cornwallis had been in charge of the whole affair.
Cornwallis was eventually sent south and given free rein from Clinton, but at the last second Clinton took most of Cornwallis' forces from him to New York where Clinton thought the main action was going to be. He then told Cornwallis to go get some victories believing that the loyalists would rally to the cause. In short, Clinton was an idiot. Cornwallis got the victories on the field, but they weren't worth the cost by a long shot. They were essentially drawn into a fight so we could cut several of their irreplaceable men out of service permanently. Once the Brits got into a more advantageous position on the field, we beat feet, and they were left in possession of a town of absolutely no strategic value whatsoever, filled with their dead and wounded.
Cornwallis eventually got to Virginia, and while he had more leeway than before he still had to follow orders from a general 400 miles away. He never criticized his commanders out loud even if he thought they were nuts; doing such was extremely dangerous for the Brits,[1] but one day he finally broke.
Here he's arranged a campaign on the peninsula and has a pretty good strategy all set.
Cornwallis believed resolutely in his plan. Henry Clinton had other ideas.That's one of the advantages we had over the Brits. Washington and friends weren't quite as shackled by the big wigs when it came to strategy and tactics, and there wouldn't be any major repercussions if their subordinates went out on their own if they had a tactical advantage. This level of freedom can also backfire as it did a couple of times and the damage was severe enough that the commanders were relieved of command and one even court-martialed. But making a move without an okay was not okay in the British army at all.
The letters has awaited him from his first days on the peninsula, arriving in small clusters. It was the disadvantage of distance, Clinton penning the letters days apart, Cornwallis received them in one mass all at the same time. He laid them out on the table, cocked his head toward O'Hara, said, "Would you suggest I read these in the order they were written, or would it be more prudent to relay them to you in the order of their insanity?"
He had lost his fear of speaking indiscreetly about his superior, emboldened by distance, of course, but more, by what seemed to be a collapse of Clinton's ability to command. O'Hara was not as comfortable with Cornwallis' whimsical attitude, said, "The most recent would be the most important, I would think. It would be a product of the latest information, would contain the orders that we would be expected to follow."
Cornwallis ignored the minor admonition from O'Hara.
"All right then, General but I should warn you. You will not appreciate the level of comedy under which I must function if all you hear is the latest order."
(Succession of orders which are pretty whackadoodle. O'Hara suggests that the most recent one must be obeyed.)
"Oh, quite! And obey it we shall! That is, only until we receive the next one."
His good humor was a mask for the complete fury that had boiled up inside him... "I have considered it a Divine blessing to have been in command so far from the reach of that man. Never was that so clear than right now. For better than a year I have engaged the enemy at every bloody opportunity. I have given my king everything a soldier must give. My reward is to endure haranguing buffoonery from my superior who sits in idleness in his mansion in New York and wrestles with demons of his own creation. The rebels are planning to attack New York. Or perhaps not. The French navy is a threat to us, so we must build a secure port. Or perhaps not. When I arrived here, I received word that General Clinton was displeased that I had sailed away from the Carolinas. I am wondering if I should return there, transport this command back to Charleston. Not only would General Clinton find that pleasing, but it might be the only means I have of escaping him."
"Sir, surely there is good work for us to do here."
"Where? Virginia? New York? Philadelphia? I am to maneuver this army by whim. We are without strategy, without the guiding hand of a commander who sees beyond his own convenience."
O'Hara shifted in his chair again.
"Sir, we must still obey our orders."
"Without fail, General. Without fail."
And I guess that's enough. It would be impossible to discuss everything in this book without using up two or three review spaces, but all the major events are covered though some are just mentioned in passing.
This was told primarily through the eyes of Washington, Greene, Cornwallis, and Benjamin Franklin who is whipping up support for our cause in France. The French show up, eventually, but they're pretty useless too except Lafayette who actually gets some stuff done, and he came way before the rest of them. There's a reason his name is all over DC. Benedict Arnold, Banastre Tarleton, Count Rochambeau, Alexander Hamilton, Frederick Von Steuben, Horatio Gates, Charles Lee, Henry "Light-Horse Harry" Lee (no relation to the aforementioned Charles Lee though he did have a brother named Charles Lee who was later Attorney General for Washington and Adams. Confused? It's okay; just roll with it), Henry Knox, Daniel Morgan, and a few other heavy hitters are all featured as well.
I enjoyed Rise to Rebellion a little more than this, but this was still great. Books about wars and battles tend to get a little repetitive even if all the battles are different. The events in RTR had more variety, and therefore I rate it as a better book, but they should both be read to get the full story, and both are worth it if you're into the American Revolution and looking for a well-told story.
[1]: Washington didn't have this luxury and endured criticism, back-biting, back-stabbing, insubordination, disobeyed orders, and all sorts of affronts to his dignity from start to finish even in congress, and a couple of battles that were lost could've been won if he had had more competent and cooperative subordinates. Yeah, I'm looking at you Charles Lee and Horatio Gates.
April 25, 2017
If you want an overview of the American Revolution, this book and its predecessor, "Rise to Rebellion", are an excellent source because it takes you beyond what you learned in high school history class, while making it all supremely accessible by turning the tale into a novel rather than a textbook. That isn't to say this is fictionalized or that Shaara took license with it. He relied on first-person accounts and letters and other historical documentation to make the dialogue and recounting of events as accurate as possible.
If you're a Hamilton fan looking for more, this is a great place to start delving into American Revolutionary history. (But start with Rise to Rebellion, the first book of this duology.)
If you're a Hamilton fan looking for more, this is a great place to start delving into American Revolutionary history. (But start with Rise to Rebellion, the first book of this duology.)
October 26, 2015
I cannot say enough good things about this book. For someone like myself who has always been interested in the American Revolution, it is kind of like a dream come true. Equally informative and dramatic, as well as captivating and well-written, this book, as well as the prequel, Rise to Rebellion, are definitely necessities for Americans to read, to fully appreciate what Washington, Greene, Lafayette, Franklin, Adams, Jefferson, Tilghman, Morgan, Wayne, Knox and many many more went through to see America gain her independence. I also appreciated the in-depth look at Charles Cornwallis, who in all honesty, had he possessed more superiority in the British army, may have been the one commander who could have beaten the rebels. If it weren't for the inept behaviors and actions of men like Howe and Clinton, in their positions of seniority, things may have been very different for America. I really enjoyed the focus on Nathanael Greene, in his role as quartermaster and close subordinate to Washington, and it makes me very proud to have discovered before reading this book that he is a distant relation of mine. Being able to follow the details and drama of the battles as they played out, and the overall strategies and struggles of the war really made this book interesting and hard to put down. One doesn't fully realize the agonizing struggles Washington faced, the doubts of his ability to command, and pressures upon him to try and see his vision for independence through. Thankfully, with many likewise brave and determined, he did.
May 2, 2012
In The Glorious Cause, Shaara picks up where he left off in Rise to Rebellion and relates the events of the lion share of the Revolutionary War (the fall of 1776 to the final negotiations in 1783.) Gone are many of the characters so crucial to the Declaration of Independence and greater space is given to the key players of the war: Washington, Greene, and Cornwallis and those crucial diplomats: Franklin and Adams.
Shaara does a great job in capturing the desperate nature of the war: Washington seems finished in almost every chapter but manages to persevere through seemingly endless and insurmountable challenges. His account of the winter in Valley Forge is especially astonishing. Also great care is taken in the presentation of America's great odd couple - Franklin and Adams in their diplomatic struggles in France. (It is really funny how appalled Adams is at Franklin's perceived moral excesses in France.)
This is also a great book, but somehow less engaging than Rise to Rebellion. However, Shaara offers a profound epilogue in which he eulogizes each of the key characters which is truly amazing. Shaara makes a great case for George Washington being the most indispensable man of the revolution and one of the most pivotal men in all history.
Shaara does a great job in capturing the desperate nature of the war: Washington seems finished in almost every chapter but manages to persevere through seemingly endless and insurmountable challenges. His account of the winter in Valley Forge is especially astonishing. Also great care is taken in the presentation of America's great odd couple - Franklin and Adams in their diplomatic struggles in France. (It is really funny how appalled Adams is at Franklin's perceived moral excesses in France.)
This is also a great book, but somehow less engaging than Rise to Rebellion. However, Shaara offers a profound epilogue in which he eulogizes each of the key characters which is truly amazing. Shaara makes a great case for George Washington being the most indispensable man of the revolution and one of the most pivotal men in all history.
September 20, 2018
Nothing more can be said of Mr. Shaara that has not already been said. He followed the Pulitzer Prize winning footsteps of his father and is one of the best historical fiction writers of all time. All of his books are enlightening and entertaining and are well worth reading. This second volume of the Revolutionary War series is no exception to his fine work....he deftly describes what happens during the years after the war had started in earnest giving both a clear picture of history and an insight into the primary characters involved. As an American one can hardly read this book and its predecessor without pride......not so much in winning independence but that our country produces people who shine their brightest when things appear worst....that is a tradition that continues today and provides me an opportunity to use this review to thank all those who serve our country in the military, in law enforcement and as first responders and all those who ensure that all that was endured by our forefathers was not in vain.
August 14, 2011
The Glorious Cause is book 2 on of Jeff Shaara’s two book set on the American Revolutionary War. This book really shined through as an excellent piece from Shaara. It goes from the invasion of New York to the siege of Yorktown. The primary focus of the book is the battles and the armies. Shaara writes from the point of view of different people (Washington, Lord Cornwallis, Greene, etc). The history is true; the conversations are Shaara’s idea of what was said. If you are interested in the American Revolutionary War, I would recommend you first read a non-fiction piece such as George Washington’s War, and then read this set, or just the second set if you are purely interested in the war itself and not the run up to the event.
July 23, 2019
I have to be honest that I have not been a big George Washington fan but reading this book and several others about the Revolutionary War have given me greater respect for him. I really can't say that he was a great strategist or even a really good general but he was an excellent leader of men. If he had not been the commanding general, it is highly likely that the army would have disintegrated long before the War was won.
July 24, 2012
Just arrived from USA through BM.
This is the second and final volume of the American Revolutionary War series showing why George Washington reached the status of the Father of the United States of America.
His military actions as well as his very well planned tactics assured important victories against the Britons together with the French alliance in the figure of General Lafayette.
Another magnificent book by Jeff Shaara. Now I must finish the Civil War series.
This is the second and final volume of the American Revolutionary War series showing why George Washington reached the status of the Father of the United States of America.
His military actions as well as his very well planned tactics assured important victories against the Britons together with the French alliance in the figure of General Lafayette.
Another magnificent book by Jeff Shaara. Now I must finish the Civil War series.
June 2, 2016
Jeff Shaara's take on the American Revolution is more detailed and insightful than most. His characters seem to come alive, and so do the events. As much as I thought I knew about the Revolution, through years of reading and research, along comes Shaara to tell me a few things I didn't know. This book was definitely a good investment of my time and effort, considering its informative narrative and insights. Excellent book, hard to put down.
August 8, 2019
Brilliant in every single way!
January 6, 2023
Before this book, when I thought about the Revolutionary War I would picture Washington crossing the Delaware river in that famous painting. I pictured brave men fighting for their country. Leaving their families at home and many sacrificing their lives for the country we now live in today.
But it is so much more than that. This book really helped put into perspective the greatness of these wonderful people that sacrificed so much for all of us living in the US to have. We shouldn't have won this war. We were no match for the unprecedented British Army. And yet, somehow, through sheer will power and a deep belief in independence, we prevailed.
While this book is technically a work of fiction it is not. Sure, some of the conversations and things implied could never be known for sure, but you can't help but feel that Shaara did so much research and dedication to learning about this war and these people involved in it that even the little conversations seem to be so believable.
While this book doesn't read super easy, as it is part history book and part entertainment, it was a pleasure to go through. Reading about 1 or 2 chapters a day really seemed about perfect for this one and then on to something a little lighter.
My whole idea and outlook of the Revolutionary War changed after reading this book. And I'm glad for it.
But it is so much more than that. This book really helped put into perspective the greatness of these wonderful people that sacrificed so much for all of us living in the US to have. We shouldn't have won this war. We were no match for the unprecedented British Army. And yet, somehow, through sheer will power and a deep belief in independence, we prevailed.
While this book is technically a work of fiction it is not. Sure, some of the conversations and things implied could never be known for sure, but you can't help but feel that Shaara did so much research and dedication to learning about this war and these people involved in it that even the little conversations seem to be so believable.
While this book doesn't read super easy, as it is part history book and part entertainment, it was a pleasure to go through. Reading about 1 or 2 chapters a day really seemed about perfect for this one and then on to something a little lighter.
My whole idea and outlook of the Revolutionary War changed after reading this book. And I'm glad for it.
January 19, 2024
Compelling. The officers, troops, and events of the American Revolutionary War come alive through Shaara’s prose.
March 22, 2016
Jeff Shaara is amazing. I previously loved his Civil war books, Gods and Generals plus The Last Full Measure. If anything this was even better. He can bring it to life with all the despair, doubt and struggle that was involved over the long fight to shake off the yoke of British rule. Although I would have said that I knew a lot about the Revolution, the fact is that I learned so much here. My biggest takeaways were:
- There was really no way we should have survived much less won. To quote the excellent musical, Alexander Hamilton: " We are outgunned, outmanned, outnumbered and outplanned"
- We had no soldiers. England sent 32,000 professional soldiers to NY. Our new militia simply ran away so many times when we tried to fight.
- The Country and the Continental Congress delivered so little support and generally a fraction of what was needed.
- Generally our meager army had no coats, inadequate food and often no shoes even in winter! Soldiers signed up for two month enlistments and left as soon as it was up.
- Then we had no officers and had to survive a number of bungles by poor commanders.
- We also had no real central government and a strong belief that central government was bad as it could become the new tyrant. Therefore militia from Virginia for example would not want to fight outside their state. All militia felt that way unless their specific state was being attacked. So no way to build a big fighting force.
- Fortunately English arrogance and a lack of following up the numerous English victories gave us a tiny opening. I still can't believe we prevailed.
- The timeframe was longer than I realized taking over six years during which our new country was basically a mess hanging on by a thread the entire time.
Great historical writing!
- There was really no way we should have survived much less won. To quote the excellent musical, Alexander Hamilton: " We are outgunned, outmanned, outnumbered and outplanned"
- We had no soldiers. England sent 32,000 professional soldiers to NY. Our new militia simply ran away so many times when we tried to fight.
- The Country and the Continental Congress delivered so little support and generally a fraction of what was needed.
- Generally our meager army had no coats, inadequate food and often no shoes even in winter! Soldiers signed up for two month enlistments and left as soon as it was up.
- Then we had no officers and had to survive a number of bungles by poor commanders.
- We also had no real central government and a strong belief that central government was bad as it could become the new tyrant. Therefore militia from Virginia for example would not want to fight outside their state. All militia felt that way unless their specific state was being attacked. So no way to build a big fighting force.
- Fortunately English arrogance and a lack of following up the numerous English victories gave us a tiny opening. I still can't believe we prevailed.
- The timeframe was longer than I realized taking over six years during which our new country was basically a mess hanging on by a thread the entire time.
Great historical writing!
October 13, 2010
Grayson Coleman
Ms. Minniear
1st period
10/11/10
The Glorious Cause is a historical fiction book written by Jeff Shaara. It is set in the new country
of America during the Revolutionary War.
It is told so that all the commanding generals of both sides tell the story. For example one
chapter might be titled “Washington“, and the next “Cornwallis.” There is really no main character but
here are some of the characters, George Washington, Nathanael Greene, Charles Cornwallis, and William
Howe.
The story is about the second half of the American Revolution. The Rebels suffer several defeats
in the beginning, but the tide turns soon after the Prussian General von Steuben comes to the aid of the
Americans offering the Continental Army formal military training. They learned how to stand up to the
enemy and fire massed volleys instead of randomly shooting. Aid also comes in the form of the Marquis
de Lafayette. He defied his king’s orders and came to America to volunteer. Lafayette will lead the French
army in the final battle, now that the French king agreed to join the Americans in their fight for
independence. You probably know the outcome of the war but I will leave the details for you to read
yourself.
The historical aspect of the book is what gives it excitement and a nostalgic feeling. I
would recommend this book to anyone who likes history and has a lot of time to read because of the
length of the book.
Ms. Minniear
1st period
10/11/10
The Glorious Cause is a historical fiction book written by Jeff Shaara. It is set in the new country
of America during the Revolutionary War.
It is told so that all the commanding generals of both sides tell the story. For example one
chapter might be titled “Washington“, and the next “Cornwallis.” There is really no main character but
here are some of the characters, George Washington, Nathanael Greene, Charles Cornwallis, and William
Howe.
The story is about the second half of the American Revolution. The Rebels suffer several defeats
in the beginning, but the tide turns soon after the Prussian General von Steuben comes to the aid of the
Americans offering the Continental Army formal military training. They learned how to stand up to the
enemy and fire massed volleys instead of randomly shooting. Aid also comes in the form of the Marquis
de Lafayette. He defied his king’s orders and came to America to volunteer. Lafayette will lead the French
army in the final battle, now that the French king agreed to join the Americans in their fight for
independence. You probably know the outcome of the war but I will leave the details for you to read
yourself.
The historical aspect of the book is what gives it excitement and a nostalgic feeling. I
would recommend this book to anyone who likes history and has a lot of time to read because of the
length of the book.
September 15, 2019
This big very detailed book was a real learning experience that was also an enjoyable read. I was originally put off by the introductory start of sections where he used pronouns rather than tell me who the section was about. Then he would explain it. Here we got battle plans ,battles, Lafayette, Von Stueben, Washington, Charles Lee and we get the English side as well. There are whole books on Benedict Arnold, but the story is here and within another chapter.
Why were some battles remembered? We found out a lot of heroes made mistakes.
We get the aftermath for some characters and how burned out towns came out.
Why were some battles remembered? We found out a lot of heroes made mistakes.
We get the aftermath for some characters and how burned out towns came out.
Read
July 24, 2011Enjoyable. Washington in particular comes to life as a human with doubts and annoyances, and people we know a little about like Nathan Hale and Benedict Arnold are, in turn, rendered in full narative color.
January 18, 2013
This is good for those who want a 'sweeping' read of the American Revolution. It doesn't cover all the details but still paints a good picture of our revolution, giving both the American rebel and British view points.
March 29, 2020
An absolute fantastic account of the Revelationary War. The focus of the narrative centers on a handful of key players, Gen. Washington, Gen. Green, Gen. Cornwallis, Benjamin Franklin as well as several others. Extremely well written & entertaining. Highly recommend!
March 27, 2009
One of my all-time favs!
September 2, 2011
A great book. The author brings history alive with factual data.
It was interesting to note the significant role played by France in our independence.
It was interesting to note the significant role played by France in our independence.
November 22, 2020
Jeff Shaara brings the Revolutionary War and it's principle generals to light with this book. This is his second book of a two part series that started with the excellent "Rise To Rebellion". The author follows the military names you learned about in history class up and down the east coast as they fight to gain or crush independence.
What Mr. Shaara does uniquely well is write in a way that brings the historical figures real side to the reader. The doubts and indecision that they had. The very real fears they faced, like George Washington worrying about his wife Martha and home at Mt. Vernon when the British set up fairly near there in his native Virginia.
All the big names are profiled and followed here, British Generals Howe, Clinton and Cornwallis as well as British Admiral Howe. American generals Benedict Arnold, George Washington, Nathaniel Greene, Marquis De Lafayette, Lee, Gates and Mad Anthony Wayne are all followed through their campaigns.
The author does a great job making real folks of these names, of giving all the background and interactions that went into decisions and writes of the battles in a way that is easily understandable for those that don't have a scholarly degree.
Because this is basically a war book other founding fathers are not involved, other than Ben Franklin and his grandson who were trying to get French help for the rebellion. You see the names Jefferson, Hamilton, Burr, Adams and the like but very briefly. This book was not about statesmen, it was about warriors.
What Mr. Shaara does uniquely well is write in a way that brings the historical figures real side to the reader. The doubts and indecision that they had. The very real fears they faced, like George Washington worrying about his wife Martha and home at Mt. Vernon when the British set up fairly near there in his native Virginia.
All the big names are profiled and followed here, British Generals Howe, Clinton and Cornwallis as well as British Admiral Howe. American generals Benedict Arnold, George Washington, Nathaniel Greene, Marquis De Lafayette, Lee, Gates and Mad Anthony Wayne are all followed through their campaigns.
The author does a great job making real folks of these names, of giving all the background and interactions that went into decisions and writes of the battles in a way that is easily understandable for those that don't have a scholarly degree.
Because this is basically a war book other founding fathers are not involved, other than Ben Franklin and his grandson who were trying to get French help for the rebellion. You see the names Jefferson, Hamilton, Burr, Adams and the like but very briefly. This book was not about statesmen, it was about warriors.
May 7, 2026
Was exactly what I was looking for in reading an American Revolution novel for the 250th Anniversary. The book spans major events from the New York Campaign in 1776 all the way to the Siege of Yorktown in 1781. I was initially concerned that the book may feel rushed covering multiple years but i was pleased with the format and felt like ample time was given to the crucial events. In the authors style, he presents from multiple points of view of real historical figures on both sides. Which gives great insight into what both sides may be thinking for the same events. For example, seeing victories and defeats through the eyes of Washington, Cornwallis, Nathaniel Greene, Ben Franklin, the French, the Hessians, and others. There are such intense moments in this conflict and the writer does a great job at keeping you at the edge of your seat in the must-win/desperate situations of Washington’s Rebels.
After reading it definitely gets you inspired to read and research further in the actual events. I would highly recommend for anyone else wanting an exciting read for America 250th.
P.S.
this is Part 2 of a 2 part book series. Part 1 is “Rise to Rebellion”
After reading it definitely gets you inspired to read and research further in the actual events. I would highly recommend for anyone else wanting an exciting read for America 250th.
P.S.
this is Part 2 of a 2 part book series. Part 1 is “Rise to Rebellion”
August 30, 2019
This is the second book in Jeff Shaara's duology on the American Revolution.
The story begins shortly after the signing of the Declaration of Independence and ends with the surrender of Britain at Yorktown. In true Shaara form, the story is told through the eyes of those who lived it. Fictionalized History, most definitely, but done with in-depth research.
I knew about these men: George Washington, Charles Cornwallis, Ben Franklin, from years of American History in school. I really enjoyed the parts on Franklin, learning so many things about him that I never knew.
Shaara also brings in those men who were only "add-ons" in the classroom. Nathanael Greene, Washington's right hand man and brilliant strategist. Daniel Morgan, who commanded one of the best rifle companies in the Continental Army, The Marquis de Lafayette, who believed in the American Cause and traveled from France to help.
I have become a huge Shaara "fan-girl" , if you love history and historical fiction his books are a "not to be missed"
The story begins shortly after the signing of the Declaration of Independence and ends with the surrender of Britain at Yorktown. In true Shaara form, the story is told through the eyes of those who lived it. Fictionalized History, most definitely, but done with in-depth research.
I knew about these men: George Washington, Charles Cornwallis, Ben Franklin, from years of American History in school. I really enjoyed the parts on Franklin, learning so many things about him that I never knew.
Shaara also brings in those men who were only "add-ons" in the classroom. Nathanael Greene, Washington's right hand man and brilliant strategist. Daniel Morgan, who commanded one of the best rifle companies in the Continental Army, The Marquis de Lafayette, who believed in the American Cause and traveled from France to help.
I have become a huge Shaara "fan-girl" , if you love history and historical fiction his books are a "not to be missed"
July 31, 2026
I do love these books. I think sometimes I have a hard time following all the military jargon, but when the book is having dialogue between some of the most famous men in history, it’s par to none.
P.S. these books have an “Afterword” where it gives you the fates and remaining bios of the characters and it’s literally my heroine. I would 100% read another 600 page book just to get that final 4 pages. It’s crazy to me that their whole lives are wrapped up in four paragraphs. Makes me think in the scale of the world we’re all really just one Wiki page, huh?
P.S. these books have an “Afterword” where it gives you the fates and remaining bios of the characters and it’s literally my heroine. I would 100% read another 600 page book just to get that final 4 pages. It’s crazy to me that their whole lives are wrapped up in four paragraphs. Makes me think in the scale of the world we’re all really just one Wiki page, huh?
December 29, 2025
Fantastic conclusion to Shaara's novels on the American Revolution! Shaara continues to amaze with his ability to combine historical records with fictional dialogue to create a story that feels like true history. As we approach the 250th birthday of our nation, Shaara's books would make an excellent July 4th gift!!
April 7, 2025
"The Glorious Cause" is an outstanding historical novel that will captivate readers with its engaging narrative, richly detailed characters, and meticulous research. Jeff Shaara has once again proven himself to be a masterful storyteller, and this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the American Revolution.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 453 reviews