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American Spring: Lexington, Concord, and the Road to Revolution
A vibrant look at the American Revolution's first months, from the author of the bestseller The Admirals .
When we reflect on our nation's history, the American Revolution can feel almost like a foregone conclusion. In reality, the first weeks and months of 1775 were very tenuous, and a fractured and ragtag group of colonial militias had to coalesce rapidly to have even the slimmest chance of toppling the mighty British Army.
American Spring follows a fledgling nation from Paul Revere's little-known ride of December 1774 and the first shots fired on Lexington Green through the catastrophic Battle of Bunker Hill, culminating with a Virginian named George Washington taking command of colonial forces on July 3, 1775.
Focusing on the colorful heroes John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Mercy Otis Warren, Benjamin Franklin, and Patrick Henry, and the ordinary Americans caught up in the revolution, Walter R. Borneman uses newly available sources and research to tell the story of how a decade of discontent erupted into an armed rebellion that forged our nation.
When we reflect on our nation's history, the American Revolution can feel almost like a foregone conclusion. In reality, the first weeks and months of 1775 were very tenuous, and a fractured and ragtag group of colonial militias had to coalesce rapidly to have even the slimmest chance of toppling the mighty British Army.
American Spring follows a fledgling nation from Paul Revere's little-known ride of December 1774 and the first shots fired on Lexington Green through the catastrophic Battle of Bunker Hill, culminating with a Virginian named George Washington taking command of colonial forces on July 3, 1775.
Focusing on the colorful heroes John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Mercy Otis Warren, Benjamin Franklin, and Patrick Henry, and the ordinary Americans caught up in the revolution, Walter R. Borneman uses newly available sources and research to tell the story of how a decade of discontent erupted into an armed rebellion that forged our nation.
495 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
159 people are currently reading
1435 people want to read
About the author
Walter R. Borneman
15 books152 followersWalter R. Borneman, b.1952, an American historian and lawyer, is the author of well-known popular books on 18th and 19th century United States history. He received his B.A. in 1974 from Western State College of Colorado, and received an M.A. in history there in 1975 for a thesis on "Irwin : silver camp of the Ruby Mountains"; in 1981 he received a law degree from the University of Denver, and practiced law. His latest book, published in May 2012, is The Admirals Nimitz, Halsey, Leahy, and King--the 5-star Admirals Who Won the War at Sea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
January 24, 2016
A readable, broad, and well-paced if almost overwhelmingly detailed history of the Battles of Lexington and Concord in particular and the beginning of Revolution in Boston in general. Accordingly, Borneman gives us fine portraits of the Adamses, Hancock, Revere, and Joseph Warren, as well as Thomas Gage, Lord Percy and William Howe. Borneman gives the reader a full picture of these events by including the experiences of such lesser-known figures such as various women and blacks, although the rest of the rebellious colonists remain faceless; it often appears from the narrative that they do nothing without direction from Hancock or Adams. Borneman’s description of the the battles of Lexington and Concord are gripping, as well as the lesser-known clashes at Noodles’ and Grape Islands.
Of course, Borneman clearly explains the protest surrounding British taxation policies while noting the irony that that the taxes in question were among the lowest in the entire British Empire. Britain had neglected the colonies for over a hundred years, leaving more or less self-governing entities that were hostile to change. Borneman handles Thomas Gage sympathetically since he had a much better understanding of the situation in the colonies, but, of course, the ministry would turn against him later due to his dithering (the London government called him “the old woman”) and be replaced by Howe, Burgoyne and Clinton, who would embark on their fateful American commands and the subsequent ruin of their careers.
At one point Borneman claims that Samuel Adams single-handedly triggered the Boston Tea Party using a coded speech, although this remains a matter of dispute. Also, Borneman’s depiction of the British is almost cartoonish; almost all of them come off as incompetent villains; Borneman claims that all of the British spies in Boston were motivated by nothing more than “British sterling,” for example, while British soldiers come off as ill-disciplined bullies. Among more minor quibbles, Borneman writes that British soldiers wore “boots,” that they employed “Royal Marines,” and in the space of two pages describes the pace of Gage’s troops as both quick and leisurely. And at one point, Borneman writes that American militia commonly favored competent officers over popular ones, even though community standing was a more important factor. Oddly, he also repeats the common misconception that the militia were well-prepared as guerrilla fighters due to their experience in the French and Indian War. Borneman ignores the fact that the militia were ill-trained and most only began regular drilling in 1774, and that Massachusetts had had barely any Indian wars for quite some time. The writing can also be breezy and conversational (typical Borneman): "The western boundaries of the existing colonies---many of which had been thought to extend westward to---well, no one was quite sure---were now given a finite demarcation."
Still, a fast-paced and easy read on an interesting subject.
Of course, Borneman clearly explains the protest surrounding British taxation policies while noting the irony that that the taxes in question were among the lowest in the entire British Empire. Britain had neglected the colonies for over a hundred years, leaving more or less self-governing entities that were hostile to change. Borneman handles Thomas Gage sympathetically since he had a much better understanding of the situation in the colonies, but, of course, the ministry would turn against him later due to his dithering (the London government called him “the old woman”) and be replaced by Howe, Burgoyne and Clinton, who would embark on their fateful American commands and the subsequent ruin of their careers.
At one point Borneman claims that Samuel Adams single-handedly triggered the Boston Tea Party using a coded speech, although this remains a matter of dispute. Also, Borneman’s depiction of the British is almost cartoonish; almost all of them come off as incompetent villains; Borneman claims that all of the British spies in Boston were motivated by nothing more than “British sterling,” for example, while British soldiers come off as ill-disciplined bullies. Among more minor quibbles, Borneman writes that British soldiers wore “boots,” that they employed “Royal Marines,” and in the space of two pages describes the pace of Gage’s troops as both quick and leisurely. And at one point, Borneman writes that American militia commonly favored competent officers over popular ones, even though community standing was a more important factor. Oddly, he also repeats the common misconception that the militia were well-prepared as guerrilla fighters due to their experience in the French and Indian War. Borneman ignores the fact that the militia were ill-trained and most only began regular drilling in 1774, and that Massachusetts had had barely any Indian wars for quite some time. The writing can also be breezy and conversational (typical Borneman): "The western boundaries of the existing colonies---many of which had been thought to extend westward to---well, no one was quite sure---were now given a finite demarcation."
Still, a fast-paced and easy read on an interesting subject.
June 8, 2014
There seems to be a lot of books discussing the opening salvos of the American Revolution. Nathanial Philbrick's book is much more interesting and tells the exact same story with some attention payed to the larger deliberations and a stronger back story. Paul Lockhart wrote a book a few years back which in my mind is a much better book about the Battles of Lexington and Concord even thought it's true focus is on Bunker Hill. While Bornerman does a decent enough job he doesn't add anything new to the discussion and seems to be parroting what others have said without the nice deep revelations on personalities. This is a book which you can read if you know nothing of the battles and learn something. But if you have a more in-depth knowledge you're better off finding something better.
May 15, 2014
First, I should disclose that I received an advance uncorrected proof of "American Spring: Lexington, Concord, and the Road to Revolution" as part of a Goodreads first-reads giveaway.
American Spring is a highly readable account of the first months of the American Revolution, roughly the first six months of 1775. The book begins with the seldom-told story of a little-know ride that Paul Revere made in December 1774 to warn New Hampshire that "The regulars are coming!" This ride, made four months prior to his more famous ride to Lexington and Concord, was to warn Portsmouth that the British were on their way in response to the colonist's seizing the powder and arms at Fort William and Mary on New Castle Island off of Portsmouth Harbor. The British did eventually show up, but by then the rebels had dispersed and hidden the powder, so the British left.
The book then portrays the simmering atmosphere in the colonies during the months leading up to the shot heard round the world at Lexington and follows the the action through to the Battle of Bunker Hill and ends as George Washington arrives to take command of the colonials in July 1775. Borneman's battle narratives are vividly told. The Battle of Bunker Hill is especially gripping. There are also 10 maps that help to orient the reader to the areas and battlefields discussed.
Along the way, he introduces the major characters in the early days of the rebellion and provides a brief background of each. He also addresses several myths that have arisen over the years as previous authors have repeated other authors' speculations as facts. Mr Borneman goes back to the source material (some of which is newly available) of letters, diaries, personal papers and official documents for verification rather than relying on the work of others. I'm now curious to read some of his other work including his books on the French and Indian War and the War of 1812. In some ways, the book reminded me of David McCullough's 1776 as both authors have an engaging narrative style and attention to accuracy.
American Spring would make a nice addition to anyone's Revolutionary War library.
American Spring is a highly readable account of the first months of the American Revolution, roughly the first six months of 1775. The book begins with the seldom-told story of a little-know ride that Paul Revere made in December 1774 to warn New Hampshire that "The regulars are coming!" This ride, made four months prior to his more famous ride to Lexington and Concord, was to warn Portsmouth that the British were on their way in response to the colonist's seizing the powder and arms at Fort William and Mary on New Castle Island off of Portsmouth Harbor. The British did eventually show up, but by then the rebels had dispersed and hidden the powder, so the British left.
The book then portrays the simmering atmosphere in the colonies during the months leading up to the shot heard round the world at Lexington and follows the the action through to the Battle of Bunker Hill and ends as George Washington arrives to take command of the colonials in July 1775. Borneman's battle narratives are vividly told. The Battle of Bunker Hill is especially gripping. There are also 10 maps that help to orient the reader to the areas and battlefields discussed.
Along the way, he introduces the major characters in the early days of the rebellion and provides a brief background of each. He also addresses several myths that have arisen over the years as previous authors have repeated other authors' speculations as facts. Mr Borneman goes back to the source material (some of which is newly available) of letters, diaries, personal papers and official documents for verification rather than relying on the work of others. I'm now curious to read some of his other work including his books on the French and Indian War and the War of 1812. In some ways, the book reminded me of David McCullough's 1776 as both authors have an engaging narrative style and attention to accuracy.
American Spring would make a nice addition to anyone's Revolutionary War library.
April 28, 2025
The exact level of detail I wanted in a history of spring, 1775 in the colonies. Was a very helpful guide navigating the Lexington Green re-enactment, and covered the history of Battle Road, Menotomy, Ticonderoga and Bunker Hill with valuable insight and relevance.
February 22, 2024
This short history covers the 3 months prior to and the 3 months following the running firefight from Concord -Lexington-Cambridge to the bloody (for 1775) battle of Bunker/Breed’s hill .
The writing is not great nor is it terrible. As the author says in his acknowledgements, his intent was “to tell a good story that makes those times more accessible to the general reader.” And he accomplished that.
What is somewhat unique in this retelling, is the large amount of space given from the perspective of the British/Loyalist viewpoint. For me, that is the biggest takeaway.
The writing is not great nor is it terrible. As the author says in his acknowledgements, his intent was “to tell a good story that makes those times more accessible to the general reader.” And he accomplished that.
What is somewhat unique in this retelling, is the large amount of space given from the perspective of the British/Loyalist viewpoint. For me, that is the biggest takeaway.
May 29, 2025
Very good read. the author went into detail on Lexington and Concord as well as the Battle of Machias, which is not well known.
October 13, 2017
If you're like me, a former 1970s-era elementary school student, you got a fairly shallow treatment of the Revolutionary War era. You might have learned about the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, Lexington and Concord, the Declaration of Independence, and Washington's eventual victory.
This book fills in some of the gaps, providing a deep discussion of the events taking place over six months in 1775. It begins with the political wrangling and debate, including the propaganda war between Britain and the Colonies. Again, if you're like me, you have a tendency to get bogged down when reading period speech. (It's why Moby-Dick took me so long to read, among many others.) And the first few chapters are rife with this, and with exposition setting up the action.
But it picks up. As Revere and his two counterparts set out to warn the colonists of the Brits' intention to seize weapons and gunpowder, the book seamlessly transitions to an adventure story, and becomes a page-turner.
Revere is but one of many luminaries the book follows. Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Israel Putnam, William Prescott, Ethan Allen, Artemas Ward, James Warren and Joseph Warren play essential roles on the American side (along with, for a time, at least, Benedict Arnold). On the British side are Generals Gage, Howe, Burgoyne and Clinton, along with Lord Hugh Percy, Admiral Graves and a smattering of other officers. And we are given the words and writings of some characters often neglected by histories, including black men (some slaves, some free), such as Peter Salem and Prince Estabrook, and women, such as Abigail Adams and Mercy Otis Warren. (We are also treated to intrigues, the work of spies on both sides, whose names I won't reveal.) But the main cast consists of John Adams, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock, the most prominent among the leaders in the growing rebel cause.
Walter Borneman has done this before, bringing a dramatist's sensibility to history. He does a wonderful job of pointing out the errors and missed opportunities on both sides, analyzing those first crucial battles with a tactical and strategic mind...and pointing out the ironies inherent in a simmering fight for independence that, initially, did nothing to improve the independence of slaves or women. At the same time, he suggests strongly that this turn toward independence, this result of a uniquely American mindset and experience, is what, much later, made possible the emancipation of slaves and the suffrage of women.
This book fills in some of the gaps, providing a deep discussion of the events taking place over six months in 1775. It begins with the political wrangling and debate, including the propaganda war between Britain and the Colonies. Again, if you're like me, you have a tendency to get bogged down when reading period speech. (It's why Moby-Dick took me so long to read, among many others.) And the first few chapters are rife with this, and with exposition setting up the action.
But it picks up. As Revere and his two counterparts set out to warn the colonists of the Brits' intention to seize weapons and gunpowder, the book seamlessly transitions to an adventure story, and becomes a page-turner.
Revere is but one of many luminaries the book follows. Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Israel Putnam, William Prescott, Ethan Allen, Artemas Ward, James Warren and Joseph Warren play essential roles on the American side (along with, for a time, at least, Benedict Arnold). On the British side are Generals Gage, Howe, Burgoyne and Clinton, along with Lord Hugh Percy, Admiral Graves and a smattering of other officers. And we are given the words and writings of some characters often neglected by histories, including black men (some slaves, some free), such as Peter Salem and Prince Estabrook, and women, such as Abigail Adams and Mercy Otis Warren. (We are also treated to intrigues, the work of spies on both sides, whose names I won't reveal.) But the main cast consists of John Adams, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock, the most prominent among the leaders in the growing rebel cause.
Walter Borneman has done this before, bringing a dramatist's sensibility to history. He does a wonderful job of pointing out the errors and missed opportunities on both sides, analyzing those first crucial battles with a tactical and strategic mind...and pointing out the ironies inherent in a simmering fight for independence that, initially, did nothing to improve the independence of slaves or women. At the same time, he suggests strongly that this turn toward independence, this result of a uniquely American mindset and experience, is what, much later, made possible the emancipation of slaves and the suffrage of women.
August 2, 2014
In American Spring, Walter Borneman intends to give a history of the events of spring 1775 that helped launch the American Revolution. This tumultuous time sparked the incidents that would go down in history as the start of the War of Independence.
In his epilogue, Borneman says that he set out to tell a story, and that is exactly what he did. He narrowed his narrative down to the events between March and June, with giving only a little bit of the pre- and post history.
In this, Borneman should be praised. Other books I have read that try to focus on a specific time period find themselves all over the place. But Borneman was able to stick with this narrow time frame and to give it the just attention it deserves.
In this book, we get detailed descriptions of the people, places, and events that led to the war. We hear from both sides what it was like and we are treated to almost an eyewitness level of attention that helps us understand the first battles of the Revolution. Borneman makes sure that he references modern geography so that if we go and see these places (like I did) that we know what we are looking for.
This book does not read like a history book, nor does it read like a novel. It is somewhere in between and offers us imaginative retellings but is also grounded in hard facts. The writing is clear, not technical and easy to follow.
I normally wouldn't recommend a history book as beach reading, but this one could be read a the beach or in the study.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in American history or the Revolution.
Grade: A-
July 18, 2024
A little slow in places, but by far the most in depth review of the battles of Lexington and Concord as well as the battle of Bunker (Breeds) Hill that I've read. The author has done a great job of researching sources on both sides of the conflict and presents compelling arguments behind why many of the major characters took the actions that they did or reacted in the way history remembers. Overall, this is a great recounting of the major historic events of the first half of 1775, the contributing factors leading to those events, and the people (on both sides) that played a major role in those events.
April 11, 2024
This narrative history is a first rate telling of the first six month of 1775 in and around Boston. It starts in January with the English soldiers occupying the city of Boston surrounded by sullen and angry Bostonians. It explodes in the Battle of Lexington and Concord on April 19. The inevitability of a full-scale war is set two months later, on June 17, at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Borneman does an excellent job of showing how this was one continuous story. The British and the Patriots were goading each other into conflict. General Gage was in charge of the British troops. He was trying to establish control of Massachusetts while, at the same time, not set off a war. The Patriots of Boston were trying to establish an independent country while, at the same time, not getting too far ahead of the nervous public opinion in the rest of the states. Hancock, Samuel and John Adams, and Joseph Warren were brilliant politicians and propagandist.
In the first couple of months of the year there were several skirmishes. I never knew that Marshfield, Massachusetts was a Loyalist hotbed. British soldiers were sent there to defend the loyal citizens from harassment by Patriots in neighboring towns.
The British soldiers skirmished with American soldiers at two islands in the shallow waters of Boston Harbor. The Battles of Grape and Noodle Islands were in the current area of Logan Airport and East Boston. The first naval battle between Americans and the British was in May and June in Marcias, Maine.
The Patriots were trying to get the British to over-react. They succeeded. The British raid on Lexington and Concord was an attempt to capture arms being stored in Concord, but it was also an attempt to show that the British Army could travel wherever it liked in the colonies. The raid was mismanaged by the Army. The Colonial armed resistance was impressive. The propaganda after the rate was a triumph.
Borneman traces how the news, written in dispatches by the Patriot leaders, traveled by horse and boat at an amazing speed for those days. It took five days and six hours for the news to get from Watertown to Philidelphia. Borneman tells the thrilling story of the schooner "Quero". It was captained by a Salem Patriot, John Derby. He sailed through the blockade of Salem harbor with a packet of news about the battle. He snuck into England and delivered the reports to American Patriots in London, including Benjammin Franklin, almost a week before General Gage's dispatches, with his version of the battle, got to London. It was a PR coup for the American's.
The Battle of Bunker Hill was the first true set piece battle between American and British soldiers. The American's lost the battle but they established that they were not a ragged band of farmers. They fought as soldiers and imposed huge casualties on the British. At that point, it was clear that this was not riots, or raids or terrorism. It was war.
This is a solid narrative, but Borneman also analyzes and explains the evidence that supports the story. He debunks the argument that General Gage's American wife was an American spy. He makes a convincing argument that the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on Bunker Hill, not Breeds Hill. He also has some great examples of 18th century fake news. Both sides published reports of horrific crimes being committed by the enemy, although it appears that the Americans were better at it.
This is an excellent book to give a good sense of how these events fit together.
Borneman does an excellent job of showing how this was one continuous story. The British and the Patriots were goading each other into conflict. General Gage was in charge of the British troops. He was trying to establish control of Massachusetts while, at the same time, not set off a war. The Patriots of Boston were trying to establish an independent country while, at the same time, not getting too far ahead of the nervous public opinion in the rest of the states. Hancock, Samuel and John Adams, and Joseph Warren were brilliant politicians and propagandist.
In the first couple of months of the year there were several skirmishes. I never knew that Marshfield, Massachusetts was a Loyalist hotbed. British soldiers were sent there to defend the loyal citizens from harassment by Patriots in neighboring towns.
The British soldiers skirmished with American soldiers at two islands in the shallow waters of Boston Harbor. The Battles of Grape and Noodle Islands were in the current area of Logan Airport and East Boston. The first naval battle between Americans and the British was in May and June in Marcias, Maine.
The Patriots were trying to get the British to over-react. They succeeded. The British raid on Lexington and Concord was an attempt to capture arms being stored in Concord, but it was also an attempt to show that the British Army could travel wherever it liked in the colonies. The raid was mismanaged by the Army. The Colonial armed resistance was impressive. The propaganda after the rate was a triumph.
Borneman traces how the news, written in dispatches by the Patriot leaders, traveled by horse and boat at an amazing speed for those days. It took five days and six hours for the news to get from Watertown to Philidelphia. Borneman tells the thrilling story of the schooner "Quero". It was captained by a Salem Patriot, John Derby. He sailed through the blockade of Salem harbor with a packet of news about the battle. He snuck into England and delivered the reports to American Patriots in London, including Benjammin Franklin, almost a week before General Gage's dispatches, with his version of the battle, got to London. It was a PR coup for the American's.
The Battle of Bunker Hill was the first true set piece battle between American and British soldiers. The American's lost the battle but they established that they were not a ragged band of farmers. They fought as soldiers and imposed huge casualties on the British. At that point, it was clear that this was not riots, or raids or terrorism. It was war.
This is a solid narrative, but Borneman also analyzes and explains the evidence that supports the story. He debunks the argument that General Gage's American wife was an American spy. He makes a convincing argument that the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on Bunker Hill, not Breeds Hill. He also has some great examples of 18th century fake news. Both sides published reports of horrific crimes being committed by the enemy, although it appears that the Americans were better at it.
This is an excellent book to give a good sense of how these events fit together.
May 17, 2025
I started this book while in Massachusetts for the 250th anniversary of Lexington and Concord, originally on audiobook while driving to Saratoga. But then I quickly realized I needed to read it to retain all of the information, so I switched to the ebook version, which suited me much better.
The book deals with the first six months of 1775, from the new year to the end of Bunker Hill. There's not a ton of new information here, but I enjoyed the writer's style.
I did like that the author spent a good deal of time exonerating Margaret Kemble Gage (Thomas Gage's wife) from being involved in some plot to help the rebels. While it makes for good reading, there is really no reliable historical evidence available at this time to prove that she said a word to anyone about her husband's plans, and the author demonstrates that she didn't even need to. Gage was broadcasting his plans to everyone with his troop movements (in fact, reading some of the firsthand accounts of those who took part in the events at Lexington and Concord, one quickly realizes that even if Paul Revere hadn't made his famous ride, those in the country knew something was brewing). Lord Percy even wrote that some random Bostonian he talked to had already figured out Gage's aim by himself.
But I felt like Bunker Hill was given short shrift compared to the rest of the book. And I feel like he paints Joseph Warren as a rather one-dimensional man with a martyr wish (I recommend Founding Martyr: The Life and Death of Dr. Joseph Warren, the American Revolution's Lost Hero and Bunker Hill: A City, a Siege, a Revolution for a better look at Warren).
The book deals with the first six months of 1775, from the new year to the end of Bunker Hill. There's not a ton of new information here, but I enjoyed the writer's style.
I did like that the author spent a good deal of time exonerating Margaret Kemble Gage (Thomas Gage's wife) from being involved in some plot to help the rebels. While it makes for good reading, there is really no reliable historical evidence available at this time to prove that she said a word to anyone about her husband's plans, and the author demonstrates that she didn't even need to. Gage was broadcasting his plans to everyone with his troop movements (in fact, reading some of the firsthand accounts of those who took part in the events at Lexington and Concord, one quickly realizes that even if Paul Revere hadn't made his famous ride, those in the country knew something was brewing). Lord Percy even wrote that some random Bostonian he talked to had already figured out Gage's aim by himself.
But I felt like Bunker Hill was given short shrift compared to the rest of the book. And I feel like he paints Joseph Warren as a rather one-dimensional man with a martyr wish (I recommend Founding Martyr: The Life and Death of Dr. Joseph Warren, the American Revolution's Lost Hero and Bunker Hill: A City, a Siege, a Revolution for a better look at Warren).
April 15, 2019
As long as you're not asking too much of it, American Spring pretty much delivers what it promises. The problem is that "pretty much" leaves a gaping hole once you start looking.
Walter Borneman's topic is the small window of the immediate run-up to the American Revolution, January-June of 1775, a period that ends on Bunker Hill, when war could no longer be averted. This results in a somewhat straight narrative of events. By "somewhat," I mean that Borneman manages to stick to the narrative through Lexington/Concord, and then starts hopping around as he attempts to complete his portrait. It's the oddest thing, having such a small window of history to cover and yet not being able to stick to it after all.
Borneman's perspective also contrasts with his stated objective of producing as clear a portrait of events as possible. He seems instead to be addressing historians past and present, constantly referring to old debates without really explaining why a modern reader should care, except that they once posed difficulties. He prevaricates just as constantly, hedging his bets on what did or did not happen, rather than hazarding his own opinions, if he truly has any, based on the most likely course of events, and diverges too often in the armchair quarterbacking he also criticizes...
You see what I mean? If he had done what he set out to do, covered these events from a merely comprehensive manner, giving ample voice to the often-voiceless, it would be a different book. Instead he gives a few nods here and there (and sometimes meaninglessly repeats himself), but otherwise sticks mostly to known figures, even if at times his depiction of those figures is engrossing.
A book you wish were better. A book for readers who aren't asking too much, perhaps.
Walter Borneman's topic is the small window of the immediate run-up to the American Revolution, January-June of 1775, a period that ends on Bunker Hill, when war could no longer be averted. This results in a somewhat straight narrative of events. By "somewhat," I mean that Borneman manages to stick to the narrative through Lexington/Concord, and then starts hopping around as he attempts to complete his portrait. It's the oddest thing, having such a small window of history to cover and yet not being able to stick to it after all.
Borneman's perspective also contrasts with his stated objective of producing as clear a portrait of events as possible. He seems instead to be addressing historians past and present, constantly referring to old debates without really explaining why a modern reader should care, except that they once posed difficulties. He prevaricates just as constantly, hedging his bets on what did or did not happen, rather than hazarding his own opinions, if he truly has any, based on the most likely course of events, and diverges too often in the armchair quarterbacking he also criticizes...
You see what I mean? If he had done what he set out to do, covered these events from a merely comprehensive manner, giving ample voice to the often-voiceless, it would be a different book. Instead he gives a few nods here and there (and sometimes meaninglessly repeats himself), but otherwise sticks mostly to known figures, even if at times his depiction of those figures is engrossing.
A book you wish were better. A book for readers who aren't asking too much, perhaps.
October 24, 2017
When I read histories, I have a few criteria that divide the average from the elite. Does the author engage me as a reader? Does the book contain new information — or present information in a way — that I haven't seen before? Do I have a clearer understanding of the topic?
In American Spring, Walter Borneman has met my criteria with flying colors. The scope of Mr. Borneman's tale is actually quite limited: revolutionary actions and imperial reactions in the North American British colonies during the spring of 1775. In other words, our world is limited to the events leading to and encompassing Lexington and Concord and the Battle of Bunker Hill. In some sense, it's a long journey in a short time from a generally loyal collection of colonies to a rebellion complete with a Continental Army.
Along the way, Mr. Borneman introduces us to a cast of characters, some very familiar, some vaguely familiar, and some complete strangers that we have the pleasure of meeting through his writing. And, frankly, we spend more time with the cast of "unknowns" than we do with the cast of "knowns", which in and of itself added to my enjoyment. Mr Borneman also provides such wonderful detail of the events of that spring (his thorough description of the battles of Lexington and Concord were among my favorites) and I now have a more complete and visceral understanding of what those days in April and June of 1775 must have felt like, not only to the colonials, but to the British officers who were desperately trying to restore order and control.
The bottom line: if you have any interest in the American Revolution, this book should be in your library.
In American Spring, Walter Borneman has met my criteria with flying colors. The scope of Mr. Borneman's tale is actually quite limited: revolutionary actions and imperial reactions in the North American British colonies during the spring of 1775. In other words, our world is limited to the events leading to and encompassing Lexington and Concord and the Battle of Bunker Hill. In some sense, it's a long journey in a short time from a generally loyal collection of colonies to a rebellion complete with a Continental Army.
Along the way, Mr. Borneman introduces us to a cast of characters, some very familiar, some vaguely familiar, and some complete strangers that we have the pleasure of meeting through his writing. And, frankly, we spend more time with the cast of "unknowns" than we do with the cast of "knowns", which in and of itself added to my enjoyment. Mr Borneman also provides such wonderful detail of the events of that spring (his thorough description of the battles of Lexington and Concord were among my favorites) and I now have a more complete and visceral understanding of what those days in April and June of 1775 must have felt like, not only to the colonials, but to the British officers who were desperately trying to restore order and control.
The bottom line: if you have any interest in the American Revolution, this book should be in your library.
August 17, 2017
American Spring is a so-so primer for anyone wanting to get a feel for the first year of the Revolutionary War. Taking place before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, this book centers around the early battles (1775) between the British troops and American colonists at the beginning of the Revolutionary War.
Walter Borneman is a decent history writer; he is not in the ballpark of a David McCullough or Robert Remini, but he is able to write with a certain degree of spark. American Spring has some decent details on the battles of Lexington and Concord, providing in-depth analysis of how these battles began, unfolded, and ended (a good bit of which I was initially unaware of). He should receive credit for foregoing the easy pickings--discussing men a lot of Americans already know about such as Washington and Franklin--for lesser known players in the early portion of the war effort. The inclusion of Thomas Gage's wife Margaret Kimble and Dr. Joseph Warren are a few examples of this effort to encompass more than the standard Revolutionary War boilerplate.
The closing portion of American Spring, which delves into granular detail about the Battle of Bunker Hill, was at times confusing it its descriptions but nevertheless riveting to follow. American Spring was not in the top tier of U.S. history reading, but it does nicely explain the very beginning of the Revolutionary War.
-Andrew Canfield Denver, Colorado
Walter Borneman is a decent history writer; he is not in the ballpark of a David McCullough or Robert Remini, but he is able to write with a certain degree of spark. American Spring has some decent details on the battles of Lexington and Concord, providing in-depth analysis of how these battles began, unfolded, and ended (a good bit of which I was initially unaware of). He should receive credit for foregoing the easy pickings--discussing men a lot of Americans already know about such as Washington and Franklin--for lesser known players in the early portion of the war effort. The inclusion of Thomas Gage's wife Margaret Kimble and Dr. Joseph Warren are a few examples of this effort to encompass more than the standard Revolutionary War boilerplate.
The closing portion of American Spring, which delves into granular detail about the Battle of Bunker Hill, was at times confusing it its descriptions but nevertheless riveting to follow. American Spring was not in the top tier of U.S. history reading, but it does nicely explain the very beginning of the Revolutionary War.
-Andrew Canfield Denver, Colorado
January 8, 2019
Maybe 3.5 stars
I live in Concord MA, so April 19th is a date not, shall we say, unknown to me. For more typical Americans, April 19th, 1775 was the day that British troops marched to Lexington and Concord to seize weapons and supplies, and perhaps arrest folks like Sam Adams and John Hancock. This all led to the first actual battles of the American Revolution. American Spring tells that story in deep, occasionally excruciating detail. The best parts, for me, were the explanations of he events that led to April 19, as well as the descriptions of the key players (though there were perhaps too many for a book of its scope. Also, for whatever reason, the author decided to continue the story through the Battle of Bunker Hill, which doesn’t seem to belong here. Finally, like a lot of military history, the actual battles are a tough slog in audiobook format – I know this terrain intimately, I run over the North Bridge nearly every day, know exactly where Barrett’s Farm, Punkatasset Hill and other important locations are and I still had some trouble figuring out who was where when. Without a map, it’s easy to get bogged down in the details of battles. Also, meh, unless you are an actual historian, who cares? Nonetheless, this book is comprehensive, well written, and includes some details I didn’t know.
Grade: B+
I live in Concord MA, so April 19th is a date not, shall we say, unknown to me. For more typical Americans, April 19th, 1775 was the day that British troops marched to Lexington and Concord to seize weapons and supplies, and perhaps arrest folks like Sam Adams and John Hancock. This all led to the first actual battles of the American Revolution. American Spring tells that story in deep, occasionally excruciating detail. The best parts, for me, were the explanations of he events that led to April 19, as well as the descriptions of the key players (though there were perhaps too many for a book of its scope. Also, for whatever reason, the author decided to continue the story through the Battle of Bunker Hill, which doesn’t seem to belong here. Finally, like a lot of military history, the actual battles are a tough slog in audiobook format – I know this terrain intimately, I run over the North Bridge nearly every day, know exactly where Barrett’s Farm, Punkatasset Hill and other important locations are and I still had some trouble figuring out who was where when. Without a map, it’s easy to get bogged down in the details of battles. Also, meh, unless you are an actual historian, who cares? Nonetheless, this book is comprehensive, well written, and includes some details I didn’t know.
Grade: B+
May 3, 2021
The story of Lexington and Concord, in my mind, is timeless: the midnight ride of Paul Revere; the mystery as to who fired the first shot on Lexington Green; the congealing of an army at Concord, a military force outside of Boston, and a nation across countless hearths from New Hampshire to Georgia.
Borneman delivers a crisp, engrossing take on the events leading up to the Battle of Lexington and Concord, continuing through to the bloody encounter at Bunker Hill. Borneman does a good job at reciting the narrative, all the while picking at oft-told tales that may not be as true as we think. General Gage comes in for scrutiny as British commander on the scene, though Borneman makes a convincing case that his wife, long the suspect who leaked Gage's battle plans before the March to Lexington, is not the culprit who betrayed British blood.
For an in-depth take on the broiling scene of Boston in 1775, Borneman's "American Spring" is an excellent place to start.
Borneman delivers a crisp, engrossing take on the events leading up to the Battle of Lexington and Concord, continuing through to the bloody encounter at Bunker Hill. Borneman does a good job at reciting the narrative, all the while picking at oft-told tales that may not be as true as we think. General Gage comes in for scrutiny as British commander on the scene, though Borneman makes a convincing case that his wife, long the suspect who leaked Gage's battle plans before the March to Lexington, is not the culprit who betrayed British blood.
For an in-depth take on the broiling scene of Boston in 1775, Borneman's "American Spring" is an excellent place to start.
January 8, 2018
“American Spring” tells the story of the American road to Revolution and Independence from Lexington and Concord in December 1774 through the Battle of Bunker Hill, which was not very satisfactory for either side, to George Washington’s assumption of command of the American Army on July 3, 1775. Author Walter Borneman has crafted an engaging work that draws the reader into the drama and holds his interest until the end. He involves main characters on both sides and illustrates how the colonial forces gradually coalesced into an army that could conduct operations on a continental scale.
I like way this book illustrates the process by which the military struggle was organized, even before independence was declared. I recommend it for a more detailed examination after an initial understanding of the Revolution is mastered.
I like way this book illustrates the process by which the military struggle was organized, even before independence was declared. I recommend it for a more detailed examination after an initial understanding of the Revolution is mastered.
December 26, 2018
I wanted a clear-headed book about the earliest days of the American Revolution, and "American Spring" truly delivered. The writing is friendly and not without humor or sly references to the present day. The research is admirable. The tying together of disparate elements is clear and helpful. If you've always had just sort of a vague idea about Lexington, Concord, Bunker Hill, etc., this account will set you straight, adding pocket profiles of Samuel Adams, John Hancock, Israel Putnam, British Gens. Howe, Gage, Clinton, and many others, with good attention paid to the women and African Americans who were in the mix. I should add that the maps included were helpful and much appreciated, but they might have been better and more detailed. A couple even deviated from the narrative. Overall, though, this is an excellent read.
January 11, 2022
Walter R. Borneman's "American Spring: Lexington, Concord, and the Road to Revolution" tells the story of the first half of 1775 in Boston and offers up a detailed view of how those events would lead to things much further down the line. Each step of the way, we the reader get a feel for the people involved in the events in Boston as well as a bit of history involving those individuals which gives us a chance to further understand exactly how we got to this point. What is also a nice touch is seeing the views as well from this on a national level as well as even the points of view from the British & their logic in some of this as well. This book is hard to put down and honestly for this reader offers more insight into this timeframe than anything I've ever encountered before making this book a must read for anyone with an interest in Revolutionary War America.
March 7, 2020
Borneman's book covers the period of December 1774 to Bunker Hill in June of 1775.While he offers the most detailed account of Lexington and Concord I believe I have read, his account suffers from comparison with Rick Atkinson's "The British Are Coming" which I finished a few months' ago. While detailed, it is repetitive in places (Yes, we understand Margaret Kemble Gage was not a Patriot secret agent. We don't have to be told this repeatedly) and occasionally a trifle boring. However, Borneman does ask and attempt to answer many critical questions- who did fire the first shot, why was Joseph Warren on Breed's Hill, etc.
October 22, 2020
A lot of research went into this fascinating history book. Yes, parts are a little overwhelming with details but it is a history book so this is to be expected. It was also a dry read.
I like that it is broken down into parts. "Part I. An Irrepressible Tide, January-March 1775, Part II. Let It Begin Here April 1775, Part III Decisive Days, May-June 1775." Has a nice collection of pictures and maps throughout the book showing who is being talked about and the locations. Also, has a nicely put together Index in the back. I found myself using it a few times when I wanted to go back and reread a couple of parts about people and places.
I like that it is broken down into parts. "Part I. An Irrepressible Tide, January-March 1775, Part II. Let It Begin Here April 1775, Part III Decisive Days, May-June 1775." Has a nice collection of pictures and maps throughout the book showing who is being talked about and the locations. Also, has a nicely put together Index in the back. I found myself using it a few times when I wanted to go back and reread a couple of parts about people and places.
May 28, 2025
Having already read the first two books of Rick Atkinson’s The Revolution Trilogy, I approached Walter Borneman’s "American Spring" with curiosity about how it would complement the broader narrative. While Borneman’s account isn’t as sweeping or comprehensive as Atkinson’s, it offers a compelling and worthwhile deep dive into the pivotal months leading up to the American Revolution. I especially appreciated the spotlight on lesser-known figures and events, which added fresh perspective to a well-trodden era. The book’s brisk pace and focus on the human drama behind the headlines made it an engaging read that nicely bridges the gap between popular history and scholarly insight.
February 14, 2024
If you love reading about the Revolutionary War, read this book. It covers the first 6 months of 1775, ending with the Battle of Bunker Hill (or is it Breed’s Hill?-This author argues it’s fine to call it Bunker Hill - read the book to find out why.).
I found this book at the Minuteman National Park Bookstore. The minutemen statue in Lexington, MA is in the wrong town. No minutemen fought in Lexington!Another interesting fact I learned.
My only criticism is that sometimes the author makes assumptions about the reader’s prior knowledge.
I found this book at the Minuteman National Park Bookstore. The minutemen statue in Lexington, MA is in the wrong town. No minutemen fought in Lexington!Another interesting fact I learned.
My only criticism is that sometimes the author makes assumptions about the reader’s prior knowledge.
November 21, 2025
This book is an enjoyable look at the events and battles leading up to the fall of 1775 in the American colonies. It surveys the terrain very capably and held my interest. The author placed an emphasis on using primary sources, which provides an engaging sense of directness. Descriptions of battles are always challenging for me in books like this- the details about units of military organization and the geography are sometimes hard to absorb from a book. That being said, the writing is somewhat lively and the characters seem somewhat vivid.
December 31, 2020
Detailed account of the events leading up to, and including, the Battles of Lexington, Concord and Bunker Hill, as well as smaller engagements. The book focuses on the events prior to General Washington's arrival - but in doing so, the story also ends with the British being hemmed in on the Boston and Charlestown peninsulas prior to their eventual evacuation, which kind of gives the book a feel of being a bit of an unfinished story.
July 17, 2023
I’m enjoying trolling through the colonial period. This is one of the five books I’ve marked for consumption this year.
I also read this in concert with Lexington and Concord by George Daughan. I like Boreneman’s approach—especially as it relates to the conflicts among family and friends.
This study has a more American focus, with greater expansion of events after Lexington and Concord through to Bunker Hill.
I found it hard to put down.
I also read this in concert with Lexington and Concord by George Daughan. I like Boreneman’s approach—especially as it relates to the conflicts among family and friends.
This study has a more American focus, with greater expansion of events after Lexington and Concord through to Bunker Hill.
I found it hard to put down.
August 6, 2023
Fun read! I liked Borneman’s approach to this work. It was a good blend of narrative and facts which was a nice change coming from Gilbert’s Churchill volumes. The Bunker Hill section was a little hard to follow as Borneman’s style forces you to be a little more familiar with the geography of Charlestown than a normal person would be. Otherwise, this was a splendid book. The Lexington & Concord accounts were very easy to follow.
October 12, 2018
This is a very good and readable review of the first several months on the American Revolution. Borneman goes into greater detail in describing the battles on Lexington, Concord and Bunker Hill. For example, who carried the lanterns up the steeple of the North Church to send the message to Paul Revere. I enjoyed reading book and strongly recommend it.
January 22, 2019
The beginning of our Revolution was touch and go on both sides. This well-written history delves into January through June 1775 and our nation's beginnings. Who were the embattled farmers, and who were their leaders? Even if history is not your thing, learning about the men and women who began it all is well worth it.
April 27, 2020
This was a very well written and researched book on the opening of the Revolutionary War. I learned quite a bit from reading it. However, it did have a tendency to digress on minor issues which made some parts of the book hard to digest. Overall however, a solid book on American History that is well worth your time to digest.
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