The Compact History of the Revolutionary War

by R. Ernest Dupuy, Trevor N. Dupuy

The Boston Tea Party. Brandywine. Germantown. Bunker Hill. Lexington. Saratoga. Charleston. George Washington. Paul Revere. Daniel Boone. Benedict these are just a handful of the people and battles that shaped the war that birthed a nation. The American Revolutionary War is such an important event in world history that it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. But military historians R. Ernest Dupuy and Trevor N. Dupuy set out to do just that, busting the myths to uncover the truth behind the momentous events that saw a ragtag crowd of reluctant amateurs take on and beat the extraordinary military power of the British Empire. This book is a fascinating account of the unfolding of the war, painting a background in which Britain ruled the waves until they imposed taxes on the Thirteen Colonies, leading to widespread indignation. The rest, as they say, is history… Praise for Trevor N & R Ernest Dupuy “It is a comprehensive treatment of its subject, covering the good leadership as well as the bad. It is well worth reading for military and civilian alike. Besides this, it is entertaining reading.” General Gavin “Superb...enthralling...highly recommended.” Library Journal “Concise, well-written...a wide selection of paintings and photographs and excellent maps...aid in understanding the complexities of strategy and following the action.” The New York Times Colonel R. Ernest Dupuy (1887- 1976) was a newspaperman as well as a National Guardsman as a young man. He saw action in both World Wars. Twenty-five years later, as acting director of the SHAEF public relations division, it was his voice that announced the Normandy landings. After his retirement in 1947, he specialized in writing military history, and authored many books on the U.S. Army, West Point, and military affairs. Colonel Trevor N. Dupuy graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1938, and in World War II spent more combat time in Burma than any other American. Brave Men and Great Captains was the third of fifteen book collaborations between father and son. Since his retirement from the Army in 1958, he has written many books and articles on military history and affairs.

Genres: History

404 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1963

Reviews

[Annie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the best

The style of writing made many parts very hard to follow. There seemed to be a lack of flow, and was instead more like an endless recitation of facts.

[Chuck Leonard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable synopsis of the important battles of the American Revolution with just enough detail and plenty of anecdotes that highlight the struggles of people trying to create a new country. As is typical, Washington's genius is downplayed (appropriately) and the potentiual for victory is too. I have visited many of the locations where these battles were fought and it is surprising and maybe a little disapointing that most citizens of the U.S. have little idea of what happened there. A recommended read for people who are interested in this part of our history.

[Mhorg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant.

While reading this, one learns quite a bit about the war that freed us from being colonies of the British empire. One will see how Washington took men from different states and forged then into an army that his will kept together, even when congress was failing them. The treachery of Benedict Arnold, the victory at Saratoga, our French allies, and most surprising, how different the war was in the southern colonies, far more vicious. A great book.

[Michele A Kramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Sweep of the War

Although focused on the military history, there is plenty of social and political insight, too. Well-written and easy to read, you move quickly from engagement to engagement. There is also historical perspective as the authors place the American War of Independence in context of the other conflicts taking place around the world at the time.

[Shannon Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good amount of detail

Good book for a better understanding of the war. Some bits were still a bit confusing. Addition of maps would be helpful. But as I read I looked up troop movement maps and locations easily clarifying details.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting concise history

A military history not an overall history. Great for those who want to focus on the campaigns and leadership. Explains strategy a d motivation. A great read.

[Heather G · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dry

The author did his best with all the material but was just too dry. No fact was too small and it was a struggle to finish.

[Jon Gautier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a bad quick overview. There's so much better out there, though.