The Revolutionary War comes to life in true accounts by actual participants in America's struggle for independence. A doctor describes his experience with George Washington's army during their winter at Valley Forge, a naval hero recounts his exploits at sea with John Paul Jones, and women tell of flirtations with officers in the Continental Army. Within these narratives are descriptions of both thrilling action on the high seas and the dank interiors of prison ships, where many ended their days. Illustrated with 19 black-and-white period drawings.
An incredible collection of first hand accounts of the Revolutionary War that covers a wide spectrum of aspects of the war. I was surprised I had never heard of this book as its one of the best history books I’ve ever read. If you are a fan of the gritty details, boots on the ground (or ship) type of historical accounts, then this will be right up your alley. I found it very fitting the author mentioned Ernie Pyle in the introduction because that’s exactly the vein of writing contained in the book. So many Revolutionary War books are a birds eye view and the distance of time makes it seem harder to imagine. Very much not the case with this book which I consider a new classic in my collection.