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The Battle for New York: The City at the Heart of the American Revolution
Provides a dramatic account of the seminal role played by New York City during the American Revolution, from its September 1776 fall to the British under General William Howe, through years of occupation, and beyond, interweaving illuminating profiles of the individuals on both sides of the conflict with a study of the cultural, political, social, and economic events of the eighteenth century. Reprint.
464 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2003
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About the author
Barnet Schecter
9 books2 followersBarnet Schecter is an independent historian, He holds a B.A., magna cum laude, from Yale University and an M.F.A. from Queens College, CUNY.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 28, 2016
I don't live in America, I never had an American education so I can't tell you whether or not Schechter is right to assert, as he does in the (extended) title to this book, that New York was in fact 'The City at the Heart of the American Revolution' - though from little I do know I always thought it was Boston? - but whatever the case, this is his contention.
That weighty issue aside though, what this book primarily provides is a detailed account of the scenes of troop movements, skirmishes and actual battles fought in New York between the patriots and loyalists in the first years following the declaration of independence, using footnotes to fix their position in the modern day Big Apple.
This "walking tour" purpose of the book is spelled out with an appendix, which brings it all together.
Schechter begins by tracing the seeds of colonial discontent in New York, from the gifted lawyer William Smith and the more radical Son's of Liberty lead by Isaac Sears, who strongly detested the brutal British Lieutenant Governor Cadwallader Colden and opposed the Stamp Act of taxes (1765) and the Tea Duty, conducting their own version of the Boston Tea Party on the British ship The London.
The Son's erected a symbolic "Liberty Poll" which they rallied around, delivering speeches and forcing patriotic statements out of various loyalists, or tar-and-feathering them. The British continually tore it down, cutting or blasting each new reinforced poll.
Smith, by the way, later worked covertly for the empire against his countrymen.
Indeed the war between the British and fledgling Americans must have been a curious sort of one. Like Smith, many of New York's merchants and professionals were conflicted during the revolution as they were both patriots and loyalists; what they wanted to avoid most, even at the expense of freedom from the empire, was insurrection and mob violence.
As were many of the fighting men similarly conflicted, such as Lord James Alexander Stirling, who fought for the Americans, and of course Benedict Arnold, who fought for both sides at different stages.
As for the leaders of the British army and fleet, the brothers General Richard Howe and Admiral William Howe, they were known sympathizers towards the colonists who ideally wanted a peaceful outcome, so much so that their tardy execution of the war most likely cost the British a quick, sweeping victory.
Indeed, the whole conflict was essentially a series of American retreats that, due to the cautiousness of their pursuers, proved to be a successful strategy.
Schechter has written an orderly, blow by blow account of momentous events, but it's a little dull at times. As usual I prefer the absurd ephemera around the major facts, such as how many of the American troops had to wear leafy branches in their hats as they didn't have enough identifying caps; or of how the first shots of the war were fired when some British soldiers stumbled into an American advance force because they couldn't resist a field of juicy watermelons.
Also, the first ever combat submarine, The Turtle, was deployed in the war, featuring a static torpedo that had to be screwed into the hull of the enemy boat. The most adept pilot was ill so an undertrained one had to man it and he failed to secure the bomb, though it exploded to awesome effect in an empty stretch of sea, impressing all onlookers.
More of that and less of of the drudgery would have enlivened a book full of utility but generally short on entertainment.
That weighty issue aside though, what this book primarily provides is a detailed account of the scenes of troop movements, skirmishes and actual battles fought in New York between the patriots and loyalists in the first years following the declaration of independence, using footnotes to fix their position in the modern day Big Apple.
This "walking tour" purpose of the book is spelled out with an appendix, which brings it all together.
Schechter begins by tracing the seeds of colonial discontent in New York, from the gifted lawyer William Smith and the more radical Son's of Liberty lead by Isaac Sears, who strongly detested the brutal British Lieutenant Governor Cadwallader Colden and opposed the Stamp Act of taxes (1765) and the Tea Duty, conducting their own version of the Boston Tea Party on the British ship The London.
The Son's erected a symbolic "Liberty Poll" which they rallied around, delivering speeches and forcing patriotic statements out of various loyalists, or tar-and-feathering them. The British continually tore it down, cutting or blasting each new reinforced poll.
Smith, by the way, later worked covertly for the empire against his countrymen.
Indeed the war between the British and fledgling Americans must have been a curious sort of one. Like Smith, many of New York's merchants and professionals were conflicted during the revolution as they were both patriots and loyalists; what they wanted to avoid most, even at the expense of freedom from the empire, was insurrection and mob violence.
As were many of the fighting men similarly conflicted, such as Lord James Alexander Stirling, who fought for the Americans, and of course Benedict Arnold, who fought for both sides at different stages.
As for the leaders of the British army and fleet, the brothers General Richard Howe and Admiral William Howe, they were known sympathizers towards the colonists who ideally wanted a peaceful outcome, so much so that their tardy execution of the war most likely cost the British a quick, sweeping victory.
Indeed, the whole conflict was essentially a series of American retreats that, due to the cautiousness of their pursuers, proved to be a successful strategy.
Schechter has written an orderly, blow by blow account of momentous events, but it's a little dull at times. As usual I prefer the absurd ephemera around the major facts, such as how many of the American troops had to wear leafy branches in their hats as they didn't have enough identifying caps; or of how the first shots of the war were fired when some British soldiers stumbled into an American advance force because they couldn't resist a field of juicy watermelons.
Also, the first ever combat submarine, The Turtle, was deployed in the war, featuring a static torpedo that had to be screwed into the hull of the enemy boat. The most adept pilot was ill so an undertrained one had to man it and he failed to secure the bomb, though it exploded to awesome effect in an empty stretch of sea, impressing all onlookers.
More of that and less of of the drudgery would have enlivened a book full of utility but generally short on entertainment.
January 5, 2017
I was raised in Connecticut, but was thrilled when I could officially say that I was a New Yorker. Part of it is the history. Boston may have been the cradle of our revolution, and New England certainly played an important part in the great experiment that is called democracy, but New York was the decisive locale. Great battles and great blunders, turned here at Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, and White Plains. General George Washington was outnumbered and underfunded, but managed to lead the army through harsh winters and to unexpected victories.
I attended a DAR luncheon and heard the author, Barnet Schecter, describe the battles and the importance of New York in the American Revolution. It was a treat. He is a quiet and scholarly man, but he knows his facts. This book, while ponderous at times, was full of great and wonderful details on so many who shaped history. Nathan Hale, Benedict Arnold, the Howe brothers, Clinton, Cornwallis, Washington, Lee, and many more, are all here. A Very good read for the history buff. I especially like his list of "walking tour" locales, including St. Paul's Church, an historic site in Mount Vernon, my new hometown.
"It is to be hoped that if our cause is just, as I do most religiously believe it to be, the same Providence which as in many instances appeared for us, will still go on to afford us aid." -- Gen. George Washington
I attended a DAR luncheon and heard the author, Barnet Schecter, describe the battles and the importance of New York in the American Revolution. It was a treat. He is a quiet and scholarly man, but he knows his facts. This book, while ponderous at times, was full of great and wonderful details on so many who shaped history. Nathan Hale, Benedict Arnold, the Howe brothers, Clinton, Cornwallis, Washington, Lee, and many more, are all here. A Very good read for the history buff. I especially like his list of "walking tour" locales, including St. Paul's Church, an historic site in Mount Vernon, my new hometown.
"It is to be hoped that if our cause is just, as I do most religiously believe it to be, the same Providence which as in many instances appeared for us, will still go on to afford us aid." -- Gen. George Washington
December 14, 2012
The best book on the Battles for New York during the American Revolution, the only pitched battle in the war. Washington survived potential disaster and learned valuable lessons on how to fight the British. Most New Yorkers are unaware of the invisible history spread around the City. The author has a walking/transit guide to the many present day markers and sights.
May 17, 2021
A very well-written and richly informative history of the New York battles for independence from the Sons of Liberty Stamp Act protests to the vengeance wrought against the New York Tories after the British evacuation of New York. The book presents a number of illuminating episodes about lesser known Revolutionary heroes and villains, like Joseph Plumb Martin, Alexander McDougall, Isaac Sears, Benjamin Tallmadge, William Smith, Jr. and William Cunningham, all of whom are worthy of our attention-- just as the thousands of American prisoners of war who suffered gruesome deaths in British prison ships in New York harbor are worthy of our lasting esteem. While over seven long years of battle and deprivation, Washington never got the chance to achieve his most longed-for goal of recapturing New York after the humiliating defeat at the Battle of Brooklyn, he did, in the end, have the great satisfaction of parading through its ravaged streets to shouts of victory as the British Army sailed for home and a new city and, indeed, a new nation was about to be born.
November 21, 2013
A well written, detailed account of NY,NY. Albeit in the 1770s-1780. Finally the main linch pin in this war gets it moment in the lime-light.
I must admit to being slightly irritated by the discussion of other aspects of the war. While I understood the scope of the author's intent, I still feel there would have been enough to break down more of the events in detail. It is not so much that the author did a dis-service, but that I personally have wanted a book such as this to read go so long.
Schecter was trying to show that the battle for NY did not end in Harlem Heights or White Plains but rather on November 25th, 1783 - with an a hard of sight man - astride a white horse with 8 abreast soldiers behind him. Washington never gave up on his intent of recapture of NY, almost to a fools wish. But he did finally gain that moment of triumph. One can only wonder at the amount of emotions and thoughts that must of went through his mind (from Fort Necessity to that very ride into NY) that November day.
His very own ThanksGiving Day.
I must admit to being slightly irritated by the discussion of other aspects of the war. While I understood the scope of the author's intent, I still feel there would have been enough to break down more of the events in detail. It is not so much that the author did a dis-service, but that I personally have wanted a book such as this to read go so long.
Schecter was trying to show that the battle for NY did not end in Harlem Heights or White Plains but rather on November 25th, 1783 - with an a hard of sight man - astride a white horse with 8 abreast soldiers behind him. Washington never gave up on his intent of recapture of NY, almost to a fools wish. But he did finally gain that moment of triumph. One can only wonder at the amount of emotions and thoughts that must of went through his mind (from Fort Necessity to that very ride into NY) that November day.
His very own ThanksGiving Day.
January 9, 2009
This book was interesting for me personally because this battle of the Revolution is usually glossed over and only mentioned as an embarressing loss for the Americans. The book does get hard to follow sometimes because you find yourself referencing the map in the front of the book constantly. Schecter often puts in his footnotes what is currently at some of the locations in the battle so having google maps handy would be helpful.
November 12, 2007
Think you know the revolution! Not so fast, my friend! This book brings the reader to New York City during the soon-to-be country's finest moment and you'll be surprised and entertained at the Big Apple's Goings On About Town!
August 10, 2021
Well-researched and detailed, this is a must read for anyone interested in events in the New York area just before, during, and after the Revolutionary War.
June 8, 2021
The early part of the Revolutionary War was a series of failures and blunders by both belligerents. The American army had a couple of minor successes In Massachusetts, forcing the British to regroup and refocus on New York, America’s second largest city, which was a major seaport and commercial center. Because of this Washington was desperate to defend the city and foil Howe’s plans.
William Howe seemed more intent on conquering territory than crushing the rebel army and this book does a great job of illustrating that fact. The author includes many first hand accounts of the actions and unfortunate depredations which took place in the campaign. These primary sources are a priceless asset to historians.
The author’s premise is that the campaign in and around New York City was the pivotal episode in the struggle for American independence and it is hard to argue with that point. The book is well written, although the author’s narrative sometimes seems stiff and unemotional. It’s a dramatic story that should be told in a memorable and exciting manner. Still, I recommend it for anyone who wants a clearer understanding of the many battles which took place and the overall significance of the campaign.
William Howe seemed more intent on conquering territory than crushing the rebel army and this book does a great job of illustrating that fact. The author includes many first hand accounts of the actions and unfortunate depredations which took place in the campaign. These primary sources are a priceless asset to historians.
The author’s premise is that the campaign in and around New York City was the pivotal episode in the struggle for American independence and it is hard to argue with that point. The book is well written, although the author’s narrative sometimes seems stiff and unemotional. It’s a dramatic story that should be told in a memorable and exciting manner. Still, I recommend it for anyone who wants a clearer understanding of the many battles which took place and the overall significance of the campaign.
January 4, 2018
What a joy to stumble on a book in a bookstore and find such a treasure. Schecter has focused on the American Revolution as it occurred in New York City and environs. This was certainly an important place--both the British and the Americans knew controlling the Hudson could separate the colonies and win (or lose) the war).
Clearly written, the author tells you where these events took place (Washington had to meet his men at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue), which makes it that much more enjoyable. There is a brief "walking tour" in the book and a more extensive one on line.
The personalities of the individuals are well described and as usual, their qualities affected the outcome of the war. When General Lee wanted to get back to Manhattan to see his mistress, an opportunity to pursue the Americans at Philadelphia was lost!
American history people--New York people--grab this book!
Clearly written, the author tells you where these events took place (Washington had to meet his men at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue), which makes it that much more enjoyable. There is a brief "walking tour" in the book and a more extensive one on line.
The personalities of the individuals are well described and as usual, their qualities affected the outcome of the war. When General Lee wanted to get back to Manhattan to see his mistress, an opportunity to pursue the Americans at Philadelphia was lost!
American history people--New York people--grab this book!
February 26, 2025
As much as I've read of the American Revolution, I'm embarrassed to admit I didn't realize (or very possible forgot) that Washington personally prosecuted the war almost entirely in and around New York City. His primary objective was always to retake the city and, in the end, the British simply left once support evaporated in Britain following Cornwallis' loss at Yorktown.
This is a great read. My only quibble would be some of the detail in Washington's retreat(s) from New York City was left out. Other books have gone into fascinating detail about how the British chased the rebels through Long Island and Manhattan. Nevertheless, that's a minor quibble about a book that illuminates the New York perspective in a way I hadn't considered.
Of special interest is a section at the very end that provides a walking tour of the battle for New York, with reference pages to the descriptive text earlier in the book. What a great addition!
This is a great read. My only quibble would be some of the detail in Washington's retreat(s) from New York City was left out. Other books have gone into fascinating detail about how the British chased the rebels through Long Island and Manhattan. Nevertheless, that's a minor quibble about a book that illuminates the New York perspective in a way I hadn't considered.
Of special interest is a section at the very end that provides a walking tour of the battle for New York, with reference pages to the descriptive text earlier in the book. What a great addition!
January 6, 2025
Picked this up to learn more about the 1776 battle for NYC. I learned way more than I expected. Told in a way that is easily understood and makes the reader how close G. Washington came to losing everything in 1776. Only luck and non-aggressive attitudes with British officers saved his army and the revolution.
November 13, 2024
A tour de force history book covering New York during the Revolutionary era both from a military and civilian standpoint. I learned so many new tidbits and enjoyed the author's approachable writing style.
August 23, 2020
Not bad, some interesting NY detail, but kind of forgettable.
February 27, 2021
Highly recommended for anyone who loved McCullough's 1776. Rich detail from a myriad of POVs including some unexpected ones like Major Benjamin Tallmadge.
June 25, 2025
Great book especially the New York side of events of Boston origin.
December 2, 2025
Excellent description of the people and battles in New York at the beginning of the American Revolution, and the conflict between Loyalists and Patriots.
February 11, 2013
I found this book detailed and authoritative in it's narrative. The author delved into the complex relationships between the "rebels" and their English cousins. Particularly meaningful if you live, have lived or just plain love NYC. The author overlaid current NYC maps with those of the period. Fascinating!
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June 17, 2008I really enjoyed this book even though most of my history class would disagree. Its very informative about the american revolution. It was used for research for my paper at first but it got interesting so I finished it. I would reccomend it to anybody who is interested in us history.
October 28, 2010
I am almost finished with this book and have found it completely gripping. Schecter writes so skillfully, and with such attention to detail and plotting, that the book almost reads like a novel. Throughout, he combines a deft reporting of events with intelligent analysis.
December 19, 2020
I learned a lot about the American Revolution from this account of how important NYC was to both the rebels and the British Empire. It also covered the war in the South and how NYC was an influence on the outcome there.
April 24, 2007
as far as a textbook goes, this was a good read.
June 12, 2012
This book was so full of detail it was tiresome. I struggled to stay with it for the entire 400 pages.
November 3, 2012
A fascinating and readable history of some little known--and very important--battles during the American Revolution ... Fascinating.
February 10, 2013
The best history read of New York!
October 23, 2015
Excellent detailed account of the chronology of the Battle for NY.
July 14, 2016
Excellent book, well written. Worth a read for a student of the Revolution
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews