John Ferling

Bought and read this on Audible on 31 August 2023 while at the NWC. Great summary of the American Revolution, especially in context with the lectures we received that same week.
From the S&W Syllabus: Ferling traces the events that led to civil conflict and a transformation of politics and society in America. The result was the War of American Independence, the outcome of which, Ferling argues, was contingent on leadership and strategy and remained in doubt until the very last year of the conflict. Even during the peace talks, the United States might have emerged from the war far weaker and more vulnerable than it did were it not for adept American diplomatic efforts at war termination.]… (mer)

This history of the American Revolution is very succinct, and it may be too succinct. I would have appreciated more details in some places of the narrative, although I'm certain I may find some of those details in the author's other works. John Ferling displays his expertise throughout this book and has a more critical approach than other historians towards some of the major figures involved in the revolution. In particular, I liked his inclusion of some of the British politicians and the up and downs of Parliament, as that played a huge role in why the war ended when it did and is a perspective I often missed in my very American-centered history classes.… (mer)

Excellent! "Independence" focuses on the 10 or so years prior and up to July 1776. It offers detailed information from all sides and very clearly shows how delegates and leaders from the American colonies went from being terrified to even say "independence" to declaring just that. It highlights George III, his ministry, and Parliament as they tried to dictate their will upon the colonies.

With a clear style and tremendous detail, author John Ferling does a great job highlighting what caused the colonies to declare their independence.… (mer)