General George Washington

Main Themes and Topics

General George Washington by Edward G. Lengel delves into the often overshadowed aspect of George Washington's life: his career as a military leader. While much focus is traditionally placed on Washington as a statesman and the revered "father of his country," Lengel shifts attention to Washington's military exploits. The book provides a detailed examination of Washington's military strategies, his rise through the ranks, and his ultimate effectiveness as the Revolutionary War commander in chief. Lengel portrays Washington as an "imperfect commander," yet one whose strategic vision and ability to inspire loyalty were crucial to the American cause.

Lengel emphasizes Washington's skill in topography and his strategic use of geographical knowledge, which played a significant role in many of his military decisions. The book also explores Washington's understanding of the importance of alliances, ground and naval coordination, and his ability to integrate military and political strategies. Additionally, Lengel paints a picture of Washington as a "remarkable everyman," whose multifaceted skills were essential to both war efforts and forming the new nation.

Writing Style and Tone

Edward G. Lengel's writing style in General George Washington is both informative and engaging. The narrative is deeply grounded in historical facts, drawing extensively from Washington's personal papers, which lends credibility and depth to the account. Lengel manages to balance scholarly research with readability, making the book accessible to both historians and general readers. His tone remains objective, offering a nuanced portrayal that highlights Washington's flaws alongside his accomplishments, thus presenting a balanced historical figure.

Criticism

One point of criticism for General George Washington could be its intense focus on military aspects at the expense of providing a broader view of Washington's life outside the battlefield. While the book excels in revealing the complexities of Washington's military career, readers seeking a comprehensive biography covering Washington's personal life and presidency may find it lacking in those areas. However, Lengel's work is positioned as a specialized account of Washington's military leadership, and in this regard, it achieves its objective.

Brief Summary

General George Washington by Edward G. Lengel offers a thorough exploration of George Washington's role as a military leader during the American Revolutionary War. The book diverges from the conventional focus on Washington as a statesman, highlighting his strategic insights and his adeptness in utilizing his geographical knowledge to his advantage in military strategies. Lengel depicts Washington as a leader whose imperfections were overshadowed by his ability to unify military, political, and personal skills, which was pivotal for American success in gaining independence.