I’m currently reading a review copy of the newly released Flight From Monticello: Thomas Jefferson at War by Michael Kranish, a long-standing journalist/reporter for The Boston Globe and historian. Aside from familiarizing the reader with Jefferson’s writings, political views and his narrow escape from the British on June 4, 1781, Kranish paints a riveting account of Jefferson’s friendship with Patrick Henry. It covers how the two came to meet, their time in college together, and the numerous debates they attended together over the years as the American Revolution neared the horizon. Jefferson was at the Virginia House of Burgesses on March 23, 1775, when Henry gave his famous “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech. Despite their years of friendship, Jefferson later came to believe that Henry—who was critical of Jefferson’s military leadership during the Revolution—set out to ruin his reputation and name.
Flight From Monticello: Thomas Jefferson at War is a fascinating read, and I recommend it. But enough about me—what are you reading? Do you have any excellent recommendations? Please take a moment and let us know what you’re reading; we’d love to hear form you!
1 comment:
I've been hearing about this book and it sounds like a must-read. When I went to Colonial Williamsburg a few years back, I learned that Jefferson and Patrick Henry had had a falling-out and came to loathe one another, but I never knew they had once been friends. I'll be interested to read the book -- thanks for the review!
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