Joseph Adelizzi, Jr.
asked
Stephen Fried:
Have you read Mark Lender’s new book "Cabal! The Plot Against General Washington?” I am finding it difficult to read a disparaging view of Dr. Rush. Lender's book underscores the criticality of the observer when it comes to recounting history. I think it will also foster discussion of the distinction between disagreement and outright cabal. Would welcome your thoughts.
Stephen Fried
I haven't read it yet but would be curious to. I read a review of it that did not specifically mention Rush, so was interested. I also wondered if the author found the previously unpublished letter we used in RUSH, the one he wrote to his wife which has been in the collection of the Rosenbach Museum. That letter is probably his most disparaging of Washington. I do hope Lender kept in mind that Rush's main problem with the General at the time was over funding for the hospitals; also, Rush was at that time in a death match with his former mentor, Shippen, which caused him to resign from the military. Not excusing what he wrote, just explaining and exploring. by calling the book "the plot against" Lender is taking sides in a longstanding debate. It will be interesting to see if the historical community follows his lead. In the meantime, I'd love it if someone put the two of us on a panel together
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Jul 16, 2019 07:00AM · flag
Feb 07, 2020 04:32PM · flag