Valiant Ambition by Nathaniel Philbrick

Valiant Ambition by Nathaniel Philbrick is a work of non-fiction describing, as the subtitle notes, “George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the fate of the American Revolution.” Philbrick is a best-selling author (In the Heart of the Sea, Mayflower) and he has once again chronicled historic events based on thorough research; there are literally 100’s of references in the bibliography. 

The book’s story is fascinating, but so are the maps and over 70 images depicting individuals we often barely know from a brief mention in a history textbook. Philbrick does not hesitate to paint a multi-faceted picture, often describing Washington’s weaknesses (e.g., aggressiveness and temper) or Arnold’s accomplishments and stratagems (e.g., on Lake Champlain and Ticonderoga).  He analyzes their actions, basic character, and motivations, pointing to both Washington’s growth as a leader and Arnold’s well-known treachery as key factors in the ultimate victory.   

I found the text to be a bit dense at times, especially when recounting battles and troop movements. However, it was intriguing to reflect upon the varied backgrounds of the many individuals involved.  For example, Arnold was named for a great grandfather who had been an early governor of the Rhode Island colony. Philbrick’s descriptions also had me thinking in new ways about population densities, roads and travel, the technology of war, and the physical locations of 200 years ago, particularly since I had visited several in upstate New York.

Valiant Ambition by National Book Award winner Nathaniel Philbrick will definitely be of interest to history teachers and students.  This work was an Amazon book of the month selection and received starred reviews from Booklist and Publishers Weekly. 

NOTE:  Nathaniel Philbrick will in the Chicago area next week.  On Tuesday, May 31 he will speak at a noon luncheon at the University Club of Chicago.  That evening (7pm), he will be at the Book Stall, 811 Elm Street in Winnetka.  There is a fee for attending the luncheon -- contact the Book Stall for more info on both events.