The Battle for New York: The City at the Heart of the American Revolution

by Barnet Schecter

On September 15, 1776, the British army under General William Howe invaded Manhattan Island, landing at an open field on the banks of the East River, roughly where the United Nations sits today. George Washington's Continental Army, still in disarray after its miraculous escape following the disastrous Battle of Brooklyn some two weeks earlier, retreated north to Harlem Heights, leaving New York in British hands. Control of the city was Howe's primary objective; located at the mouth of the strategically vital Hudson River, it had become the centerpiece of England's strategy for putting down the American rebellion. However, as Barnet Schecter reveals in his stirring narrative, far from furnishing a key to the colonies, New York proved to be the fatal albatross that strangled the British war effort. The Battle for New York tells the story of how the city became the pivot on which the American Revolution turned―from the political and religious struggles of the 1760s and early 1770s that polarized its citizens and increasingly made New York a hotbed of radical thought and action; to the campaign of 1776, which turned today's five boroughs and Westchester County into a series of battlefields; to the seven years of British occupation and martial law, during which time Washington and Congress were as focused on getting the city back as the British were on holding it. The extraordinary campaign in the fall of 1776, which forms the dramatic heart of Schecter's chronicle, has been overshadowed by more famous engagements at Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, and by the winter at Valley Forge. Yet the contest for New York was by far the largest military venture of the Revolutionary War; it involved almost every significant participant in the war on both sides; and there can be little doubt that during this campaign, the fate of America hung in the balance on several occasions. Moreover, the outcome had a direct impact on the major turning points of the rest of the war. Schecter delights in linking eighteenth-century events with the city's modern landscape, illuminating the forgotten battlefield that remains in our midst. He skillfully weaves into his narrative the memorable and passionate voices of those who were there―American private Joseph Martin, British second-in-command Henry Clinton, patriot-turned-Tory William Smith, minister Ewald Shewkirk, Nathan Hale, Benedict Arnold, and many others―thereby tracing the impact and meaning of the revolution in personal terms and giving his story a powerful human dimension. A profound and memorable saga in its own right, The Battle for New York offers valuable new insight into the American Revolution.

Genres: History, American Revolution, Nonfiction, New York, Military History, American History, American Revolutionary War

454 pages, Hardcover

First published October 28, 2003

About the author

Barnet Schecter is an independent historian, He holds a B.A., magna cum laude, from Yale University and an M.F.A. from Queens College, CUNY.

Reviews

[Perry Whitford · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don't live in America, I never had an American education so I can't tell you whether or not Schechter is right to assert, as he does in the (extended) title to this book, that New York was in fact 'The City at the Heart of the American Revolution' - though from little I do know I always thought it was Boston? - but whatever the case, this is his contention.

That weighty issue aside though, what this book primarily provides is a detailed account of the scenes of troop movements, skirmishes and actual battles fought in New York between the patriots and loyalists in the first years following the declaration of independence, using footnotes to fix their position in the modern day Big Apple.

This "walking tour" purpose of the book is spelled out with an appendix, which brings it all together.

Schechter begins by tracing the seeds of colonial discontent in New York, from the gifted lawyer William Smith and the more radical Son's of Liberty lead by Isaac Sears, who strongly detested the brutal British Lieutenant Governor Cadwallader Colden and opposed the Stamp Act of taxes (1765) and the Tea Duty, conducting their own version of the Boston Tea Party on the British ship The London.

The Son's erected a symbolic "Liberty Poll" which they rallied around, delivering speeches and forcing patriotic statements out of various loyalists, or tar-and-feathering them. The British continually tore it down, cutting or blasting each new reinforced poll.

Smith, by the way, later worked covertly for the empire against his countrymen.

Indeed the war between the British and fledgling Americans must have been a curious sort of one. Like Smith, many of New York's merchants and professionals were conflicted during the revolution as they were both patriots and loyalists; what they wanted to avoid most, even at the expense of freedom from the empire, was insurrection and mob violence.

As were many of the fighting men similarly conflicted, such as Lord James Alexander Stirling, who fought for the Americans, and of course Benedict Arnold, who fought for both sides at different stages.

As for the leaders of the British army and fleet, the brothers General Richard Howe and Admiral William Howe, they were known sympathizers towards the colonists who ideally wanted a peaceful outcome, so much so that their tardy execution of the war most likely cost the British a quick, sweeping victory.

Indeed, the whole conflict was essentially a series of American retreats that, due to the cautiousness of their pursuers, proved to be a successful strategy.

Schechter has written an orderly, blow by blow account of momentous events, but it's a little dull at times. As usual I prefer the absurd ephemera around the major facts, such as how many of the American troops had to wear leafy branches in their hats as they didn't have enough identifying caps; or of how the first shots of the war were fired when some British soldiers stumbled into an American advance force because they couldn't resist a field of juicy watermelons.

Also, the first ever combat submarine, The Turtle, was deployed in the war, featuring a static torpedo that had to be screwed into the hull of the enemy boat. The most adept pilot was ill so an undertrained one had to man it and he failed to secure the bomb, though it exploded to awesome effect in an empty stretch of sea, impressing all onlookers.

More of that and less of of the drudgery would have enlivened a book full of utility but generally short on entertainment.

[Jean Marie Angelo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was raised in Connecticut, but was thrilled when I could officially say that I was a New Yorker. Part of it is the history. Boston may have been the cradle of our revolution, and New England certainly played an important part in the great experiment that is called democracy, but New York was the decisive locale. Great battles and great blunders, turned here at Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, and White Plains. General George Washington was outnumbered and underfunded, but managed to lead the army through harsh winters and to unexpected victories.

I attended a DAR luncheon and heard the author, Barnet Schecter, describe the battles and the importance of New York in the American Revolution. It was a treat. He is a quiet and scholarly man, but he knows his facts. This book, while ponderous at times, was full of great and wonderful details on so many who shaped history. Nathan Hale, Benedict Arnold, the Howe brothers, Clinton, Cornwallis, Washington, Lee, and many more, are all here. A Very good read for the history buff. I especially like his list of "walking tour" locales, including St. Paul's Church, an historic site in Mount Vernon, my new hometown.

"It is to be hoped that if our cause is just, as I do most religiously believe it to be, the same Providence which as in many instances appeared for us, will still go on to afford us aid." -- Gen. George Washington

[Colby · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on the Battles for New York during the American Revolution, the only pitched battle in the war. Washington survived potential disaster and learned valuable lessons on how to fight the British. Most New Yorkers are unaware of the invisible history spread around the City. The author has a walking/transit guide to the many present day markers and sights.

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very well-written and richly informative history of the New York battles for independence from the Sons of Liberty Stamp Act protests to the vengeance wrought against the New York Tories after the British evacuation of New York. The book presents a number of illuminating episodes about lesser known Revolutionary heroes and villains, like Joseph Plumb Martin, Alexander McDougall, Isaac Sears, Benjamin Tallmadge, William Smith, Jr. and William Cunningham, all of whom are worthy of our attention-- just as the thousands of American prisoners of war who suffered gruesome deaths in British prison ships in New York harbor are worthy of our lasting esteem. While over seven long years of battle and deprivation, Washington never got the chance to achieve his most longed-for goal of recapturing New York after the humiliating defeat at the Battle of Brooklyn, he did, in the end, have the great satisfaction of parading through its ravaged streets to shouts of victory as the British Army sailed for home and a new city and, indeed, a new nation was about to be born.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written, detailed account of NY,NY. Albeit in the 1770s-1780. Finally the main linch pin in this war gets it moment in the lime-light.
I must admit to being slightly irritated by the discussion of other aspects of the war. While I understood the scope of the author's intent, I still feel there would have been enough to break down more of the events in detail. It is not so much that the author did a dis-service, but that I personally have wanted a book such as this to read go so long.
Schecter was trying to show that the battle for NY did not end in Harlem Heights or White Plains but rather on November 25th, 1783 - with an a hard of sight man - astride a white horse with 8 abreast soldiers behind him. Washington never gave up on his intent of recapture of NY, almost to a fools wish. But he did finally gain that moment of triumph. One can only wonder at the amount of emotions and thoughts that must of went through his mind (from Fort Necessity to that very ride into NY) that November day.

His very own ThanksGiving Day.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was interesting for me personally because this battle of the Revolution is usually glossed over and only mentioned as an embarressing loss for the Americans. The book does get hard to follow sometimes because you find yourself referencing the map in the front of the book constantly. Schecter often puts in his footnotes what is currently at some of the locations in the battle so having google maps handy would be helpful.

[Jason Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Think you know the revolution! Not so fast, my friend! This book brings the reader to New York City during the soon-to-be country's finest moment and you'll be surprised and entertained at the Big Apple's Goings On About Town!

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well-researched and detailed, this is a must read for anyone interested in events in the New York area just before, during, and after the Revolutionary War.

[Lee Harrington · Rating 4 out of 5]

The early part of the Revolutionary War was a series of failures and blunders by both belligerents. The American army had a couple of minor successes In Massachusetts, forcing the British to regroup and refocus on New York, America’s second largest city, which was a major seaport and commercial center. Because of this Washington was desperate to defend the city and foil Howe’s plans.
William Howe seemed more intent on conquering territory than crushing the rebel army and this book does a great job of illustrating that fact. The author includes many first hand accounts of the actions and unfortunate depredations which took place in the campaign. These primary sources are a priceless asset to historians.
The author’s premise is that the campaign in and around New York City was the pivotal episode in the struggle for American independence and it is hard to argue with that point. The book is well written, although the author’s narrative sometimes seems stiff and unemotional. It’s a dramatic story that should be told in a memorable and exciting manner. Still, I recommend it for anyone who wants a clearer understanding of the many battles which took place and the overall significance of the campaign.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a joy to stumble on a book in a bookstore and find such a treasure. Schecter has focused on the American Revolution as it occurred in New York City and environs. This was certainly an important place--both the British and the Americans knew controlling the Hudson could separate the colonies and win (or lose) the war).

Clearly written, the author tells you where these events took place (Washington had to meet his men at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue), which makes it that much more enjoyable. There is a brief "walking tour" in the book and a more extensive one on line.

The personalities of the individuals are well described and as usual, their qualities affected the outcome of the war. When General Lee wanted to get back to Manhattan to see his mistress, an opportunity to pursue the Americans at Philadelphia was lost!

American history people--New York people--grab this book!

[Stephen Watts · Rating 4 out of 5]

As much as I've read of the American Revolution, I'm embarrassed to admit I didn't realize (or very possible forgot) that Washington personally prosecuted the war almost entirely in and around New York City. His primary objective was always to retake the city and, in the end, the British simply left once support evaporated in Britain following Cornwallis' loss at Yorktown.

This is a great read. My only quibble would be some of the detail in Washington's retreat(s) from New York City was left out. Other books have gone into fascinating detail about how the British chased the rebels through Long Island and Manhattan. Nevertheless, that's a minor quibble about a book that illuminates the New York perspective in a way I hadn't considered.

Of special interest is a section at the very end that provides a walking tour of the battle for New York, with reference pages to the descriptive text earlier in the book. What a great addition!

[Geo Forman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picked this up to learn more about the 1776 battle for NYC. I learned way more than I expected. Told in a way that is easily understood and makes the reader how close G. Washington came to losing everything in 1776. Only luck and non-aggressive attitudes with British officers saved his army and the revolution.

[M · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tour de force history book covering New York during the Revolutionary era both from a military and civilian standpoint. I learned so many new tidbits and enjoyed the author's approachable writing style.

[Jon Gautier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, some interesting NY detail, but kind of forgettable.

[Salina Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended for anyone who loved McCullough's 1776. Rich detail from a myriad of POVs including some unexpected ones like Major Benjamin Tallmadge.

[Van Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book especially the New York side of events of Boston origin.

[Kim Armstrong Silcox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent description of the people and battles in New York at the beginning of the American Revolution, and the conflict between Loyalists and Patriots.

[George de Armas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book detailed and authoritative in it's narrative. The author delved into the complex relationships between the "rebels" and their English cousins. Particularly meaningful if you live, have lived or just plain love NYC. The author overlaid current NYC maps with those of the period. Fascinating!

[Lisa]

I really enjoyed this book even though most of my history class would disagree. Its very informative about the american revolution. It was used for research for my paper at first but it got interesting so I finished it. I would reccomend it to anybody who is interested in us history.

[David Freeland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am almost finished with this book and have found it completely gripping. Schecter writes so skillfully, and with such attention to detail and plotting, that the book almost reads like a novel. Throughout, he combines a deft reporting of events with intelligent analysis.

[Jimmie Lee Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I learned a lot about the American Revolution from this account of how important NYC was to both the rebels and the British Empire. It also covered the war in the South and how NYC was an influence on the outcome there.

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

as far as a textbook goes, this was a good read.

[Heather · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was so full of detail it was tiresome. I struggled to stay with it for the entire 400 pages.

[Rick Hautala · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and readable history of some little known--and very important--battles during the American Revolution ... Fascinating.

[Heather De armas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best history read of New York!

[Joe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent detailed account of the chronology of the Battle for NY.

[Matthew Ericson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, well written. Worth a read for a student of the Revolution