Gordon Wood has been around a long time. A Professor of History at Brown University since the late 1960s,
he's authored two previous books which accumulated their share of awards; one on the American Revolution even won the Pulitzer Prize. It is only fitting that such a distinguished gentlemen should write a book on the American Revolution for Random
House’s Modern Library.
This book's
small package belies the wealth of knowledge it contains. Wood breaks down the events leading to
the American Revolutionary War and explains the significance of each event, its causes and how it affects Americans today. It’s written in such a way
that things make sense for even the most distant student. You don’t need a degree to read this book, but you do need a love of history; this book can be “deep” in places.
The American Revolution: A History is divided into seven parts: Origins, American Resistance, Revolution, Constitution-Making & War, Republicanism, Republican Society and The Federal Constitution. The book is evenly divided between pre- and postwar events, with the chapter about the war itself falling square in the middle.
Intelligent writing and easy flow make this an enjoyable read. It almost
reads like a novel but never quite loses its academic feel. Wood is an excellent
writer, easily persuading the reader of his conclusions. Simple, concise writing
and a treasure trove of knowledge makes this little gem one to keep for both novice and learned history buffs.