Revolution on the Hudson: New York City and the Hudson River Valley in the American War of Independence

Incredible book that should be read by anyone interested in American history. Very revealing read, interesting and reads like a novel. I purchased this book for myself and then bought two more copies to give as gifts to my history buff friends.

good book but NO MAPS. HARD TO BELIEVE in a history book. Maps are necessary

This book was a revelation, I bought it to learn more about the Revolutionary War and New York and got so much more. It is a fantastic read, tells a great story, really fills in a lot of holes about the overall war from 40,000 feet, but still provides real interesting detail about the entire war. I even learned new facts about Benedict Arnold, that he was just as effective a leader for the Brits after turning than he had been for our side. What a tragically flawed human being, he could have been a president of the United States if he wasnt so vane.

I listened to the book on audio. I enjoyed it and its well written and read. Like others, I feel the work strays from the title and theme though. It often drifts from the NYC and New York State war action into other places the war was fought. I understand some exposition is required but I really felt at times it became a general survey of the war in total.

This is a wonderful book when it comes to British ineptness and mismanagement of the Hudson River valley. The irreparable harm the whites did to the native Americans should go down in history equal to the genocide that has been going on since mankind set foot on this earth. The only problem being that we knew better, but out of greed and selfishness, we destroyed a way of life and blamed it on the savages. The Hudson was the main artery to bountiful land and riches untold. And the British Colonials fought to the bitter end to subdue the Indians, Dutch, French and anyone else who would dare stand in the way of colonial greed and British blundering. Well it all caught up with them but at such a great toll to the original inhabitants. The Crown got its moneys worth and in the end they got a snoot full. Could not have happened to a more deserving foe.

When I bought this book I was expecting to learn more about the frontier fights in the Mohawk Valley, the partisan warfare which went on for years around Westchester County and the development of the stronghold at West Point, but this book doesnt really delve into those items. In the opening, closing, and places in the book, the author makes the point that the British fixated on a flawed strategy of seizing the Hudson to separate the New England colonies from the others, but there isnt a detailed analysis of why this strategy is flawed. This is a good readable review of the American Revolution, but this doesnt live up to the promise of its title.

What a thought provoking book about the American Revolution. I agree that Daughans narrative was insightful and inspiring to being aware of the historical context of our success in bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict. I hope Daughan writes more on the land battles in the state of New York during the War, especially at Saratoga

Well written,great attention to detail. Author complete understanding of subject matter on both battlefield, sea board and lake come through in his writing and also his unique take away of the revolution. Good maps and a fresh box set pins are a must. Details are that good.

If you are looking for an overview of the Revolution, this book may be too detailed for you. Ive read many books on the Revolution, but this book makes me feel Ive never read anything at all. The author writes a great deal from the British perspective which other books seldom address opening up new understanding about the course of that war. It has given me greater insight on the Revolution.

I love reading books on the American Revolution and the early days in the formation of a government for this country.. Each author seems to bring a different look to the events, intentions and people involved. Daughan does so as well. His pace does drag. He does paint George Washington as an indecisive leader, who could not make decisions, general making poor ones as he did. From his view the American or British seldom engaged in battle. Always backing off for various reasons. it is a wonder we won the war if you accept his narrative. There is something to be learned from this book about American History. If more people had awareness of how deeply our founding fathers were committed to the birth of our nation perhaps more proper would be more respectful today.