Drawn from letters, diaries, newspaper articles, public declarations, contemporary narratives, and private memoranda, The American Revolution brings together over 120 pieces by more than 70 participants and eyewitnesses to create a unique literary panorama of the War of Independence.

Beginning with Paul Revere's own narrative of his legendary ride in April 1775 and ending with a moving account of George Washington's resignation from the command of the Continental Army in December 1783, The American Revolution describes the major events of the conflict—the early battles of Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill; the failed American invasion of Canada; the crucial battle of Saratoga; the bitter fighting in the South and along the western frontier; and the decisive triumph at Yorktown.

Included are writings by famous figures—Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Benedict Arnold, John and Abigail Adams—and by lesser known participants: Samuel Blachley Webb describing courage and panic at Bunker Hill; Sarah Hodgkins writing longingly to her absent soldier husband; Jabez Fitch recounting the last hours of a wounded American officer in Brooklyn; Albigence Waldo chronicling the privations and miseries of Valley Forge.

Includes a chronology of events, biographical and explanatory notes, and an index.

Edited by John Rhodehamel, Norris Foundation Curator of Early American Historical Manuscripts at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California.

“Powerful, startling and a subtle but profound challenge to much that we think we know about the founders and their era.”
—Los Angeles Times

“A marvelous research tool for specialists, but general readers with an interest in American history will also find fascinating gems.”
– Booklist

PLUS— FREE with The American Revolution:

“George Washington: Writings does a good deal more to make the father of our country an accessible figure than can either a TV miniseries or another biography”
—Los Angeles Times Book Review