George Washington kept a diary throughout his life except for a break during the bulk of the war years. When he resumed his diary in May of 1781, his first entry expressed his regret that he had not kept to this daily discipline during the most crucial years in the nation’s fight for independence.
Inspired by Washington’s regret, Teague has attempted to reconstruct the missing entries by studying Washington’s daily orders, writings, and letters. Teague also studied the actual sites along the Continental army’s journey and this knowledge adds realism to the diary. In doing so, the author has found a unique format to write about George Washington.
While long, the book is packed with information and perfectly captures the mood of the war, bringing readers into the action, offering a detailed and definitive military history of the Revolutionary War. Readers will gain a stark look and a new understanding of the sacrifices soldiers made for America’s freedom.
The book will also answer your questions about Washington. For instance, Washington’s actual writings reveal that he believed slavery was a great atrocity and prayed the war would open all eyes to the fact that slavery was bad for the colonists and for the Africans among them.
Washington modeled integrity and never expected anyone to simply trust him. He was not a man who aspired for power. In fact, he often wished he could simply be a soldier on the line, but duty required the burden he bore; he submitted to the authorities above him always.
Teague, as senior pastor at the Church At The Cross, illuminates the spiritual side of the American Revolution. Washington believed the very existence of America depended upon God’s mighty hand, for everywhere the general looked, he saw unexplained miracles. Teague feels religion offered Washington a moral reason to oppose the British.
Finally, this book restores Washington to his rightful place in history. The book counters the undeserved contempt being directed towards the Founding Fathers recently. The book shows what a great man he was and why. May all our leaders follow his example.
