Forging Freedom: Washington's Leadership in 1776 How did a ragtag American army stand against the strongest military in 1776? They did so with the strong leadership of their commanders and generals, who would go on to lead America to victory in the Revolutionary War. Of all the generals, General George Washington would be especially praised for his victory in the Revolutionary War. He would also be praised for leading a ragtag army against the British army in Boston and New York. General George Washington’s leadership and military strategy would ultimately prepare him for the siege of Boston and the defense of New York. With this, 1776 by David McCullough displays the year as a turning point in American history, where George Washington showcased his preparation for the fight against the British forces and his military strategy which would lead America to victory, making the book an important read for AP history students. …show more content…
The theme of military strategy could be seen everywhere in 1776; McCullough writes, “The Plan was to occupy the Heights on a single night, before the British knew what was happening, just as had been done at Bunker Hill.” (McCullough Pg.88). The council of war, composed of the Generals Ward, Putnam, Heath, Spencer, Sullivan, Greene, Gates, and also James Warren and John Adams, would convene and create a plan to occupy Dorchester Heights. This plan, done in one night, would lead to the American victory in Boston as the British retreated after seeing Dorchester Heights occupied by the Americans. Additionally, McCullough writes, “Washington ordered a counterattack across the Hollow Way. . . They were to get behind the redcoats and entrap them in Hollow Way.” (McCullough Pg.