The American Revolution

May 15, 2001
This is the newest volume from the Library of America, which aims to make major classics of American literature available in reasonably priced, archival editions. Editor Rhodehamel, the Norris Foundation Curator of American History at the Huntington Library in San Marino, CA, has assembled a comprehensive collection of over 120 pieces by more than 70 Revolution-era writers from both sides of the War of Indepedence. The book begins with Paul Revere's personal account of his famous ride in April 1775 and ends with a description of George Washington's resignation from the command of the Continental Army in December 1783. Other selections include letters, speeches, and newspaper articles. The authors range from the famous (Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Thomas Paine) to more obscure American and British observers of signal events. The collection contains eyewitness accounts of just about every significant development during the Revolution. At the book's end one can find a long section that includes a chronology, biographical sketches of the authors, and other notes on the texts. Highly recommended for all academic and public libraries. T.J. Schaeper, St. Bonaventure Univ., NY

Copyright 2001 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

April 15, 2001
Editor Rhodehamel is the Norris Foundation Curator of American History at the Huntington Library in San Marino, California. He has compiled a comprehensive collection of primary source documents that cover numerous facets of the Revolution. From the British side, readers can learn from General Gage how frustrating he found patriot hit-and-run tactics. Scholars interested in the plight of Native Americans during the Revolution will find the "Appeal of the Continental Congress to the Iroquois" very instructive. In a fascinating exercise in self-serving arrogance, Benedict Arnold justifies his betrayal to the citizens of New York. This work will serve as a marvelous research tool for specialists, but general readers with an interest in American history will also find fascinating gems in this latest volume from the Library of America.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2001, American Library Association.)