1776, written by David McCullough ventures upon the valorous journey of those who marched with General George Washington in the year of the Declaration of Independence. Washington supporters doubted their generals abilities once mistakes were encountered, leading to a deprivation in confidence. However, Washington prevented himself from acknowledging the crippling doubt permeating his people by facing the practically impossible odds he was meant to handle. McCullough illustrates a man imbued with experience, perseverance, and a realistic mindset as the general who turned average Americans into a threatening power that would defeat the greatest military in human history.
Washington commanded the Virginia Regiment and the militia at the ill-fated Battle of Fort Necessity, yet …show more content…
When concerning limitations, he remained realistic at all times, never exaggerating possibilities or aptitudes. Other opinions did not obscure his mindset, McCullough discussed, “Strange it was that the British commander-in-chief, known for his chronic gambling, seemed to give no thought to how his American opponent might play his hand” (3.78). Some would interpret the British commander’s action as a clear definition of their stature. However, Washington fought for what he believed in and that was his country’s freedom. Washington never doubted the fact that his army was not as prestigious or equipped as the British, he acknowledged the truth. When soldiers began realizing food, clothing, and shelter shortages, Washington was beyond aware for a significant period of time. As the Continental Army waited for the British to attack in chapter two of 1776, McCullough explains, “In truth, the situation was worse than they realized, and no one perceived this as clearly as Washington. Seeing things as they were, and not as he would wish them to be, was one of his salient strengths”