Jean Bonilla’s Reviews > The Fate of the Day: The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780 > Status Update

Interesting description of the efforts to get the British fleet in shape. The other books I have read make it sound like Britain was so strong. This story makes it sound like they struggled. Also interesting to know they wanted to make the French fire first; the opponent has to look guilty of starting the war.

Atkinson’s meticulous research provides tremendous detail in his writing. He concluded his previous book with an introduction to Valley Forge. Here we have descriptions of battles leading up to the choice of the winter refuge and receive more details on their stay there.

How conflict has changed! Burgoyne leaves his wounded behind with a note for Gates - “I recommend them to the protection which I feel I should show an enemy in the same case.” Today we slaughter indiscriminately.

On June 14, 1777 the Congress resolved that the American standard would carry thirteen alternating red and white stripes, with thirteen white stars on a blue field. So that’s why June 14th is Flag Day! Very appropriate.

As with Atkinson’s previous volume, I value the detail and references to personal letters and materials.