Lachlan McIntosh and the Politics of Revolutionary Georgia

by Harvey H. Jackson

Lachlan McIntosh (1728-1806) was a prominent Georgia planter, patriarch of his Highland Scots clan in America, and the ranking general from Georgia in the Continental army. Often, however, he is known simply as the man who, in a duel, mortally wounded Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia's signers of the Declaration of Independence. This biography fleshes out McIntosh considerably and, just as important, uses his life as a springboard for discussing the rapidly shifting political, social, and economic forces at work during a crucial period of Georgia's history.

Genres: History

234 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1979

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm biased because Lachlan McIntosh was my 5th great Uncle, younger brother of my 5 Great-Grandfather William.

But, the book is an enjoyable read, flows well, not dry! Well foot-noted. Lachlan is an interesting character and finds himself at a vivid intersection of American history. As such his story is an excellent springboard for wanting to know more about other areas touched upon. Important history relating to the colonial era of Georgia.

He doesn't seem terribly well known other than as the shooter of Butten Gwinnet. (Hey Button called for the duel! And Both men were shot!) Well as a non-Georgian, to be fair, I only know of Button Gwinett because of Uncle Lachland (-:

I'm currently on my second read through.

[Christopher A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was happy with the authors choice of keeping this short rather than adding in unnecessary filler just to make a larger book. The writing was clear and easy to read, pretty straightforward. Rating this based off the writing rather than the subject matter.
Knowing nothing about Lachlan McIntosh going into this book other than him killing Button Gwinnett in a duel, I come out of it pretty certain that if he hadn't killed him than there would be even less interest in McIntosh's life. Nothing in this book makes McIntosh stand out as an extraordinary General or Revolutionary politician. He served his state, he served his Country and he appeared to be a man who always tried to do the right thing (and always thought he was).
Approx 1/2 the text describes the battles in early Georgia between the Conservative and Radical factions. Maybe this would be more interesting to those from Georgia but in a nutshell its people with different political views caught in a power struggle.
Would have liked the author to elaborate more on the relationship between McIntosh and Henry Laurens. It is noted early on that Laurens becomes a mentor figure to Lachlan but is then all but disappears from the narrative.