Killing England

Killing England chronicles the American Revolution through the perspectives of key figures including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and King George III. The narrative follows both the military conflicts and personal experiences that shaped the fight for independence. The book details the major battles and turning points of the Revolutionary War, from the first shots at Lexington and Concord through the decisive engagement at Yorktown. O'Reilly and Dugard present historical events with attention to the human elements and daily realities of 18th century warfare. The authors combine military history with biographical accounts, examining how both famous leaders and ordinary citizens participated in the struggle to create a new nation. Their research draws from primary sources including letters, diaries, and official documents of the period. The book illustrates how individual choices and circumstances influenced the broader scope of the American Revolution, demonstrating the complex interplay between personal conviction and historical forces that continue to resonate in discussions of liberty and self-governance.

Readers found this book accessible for those new to Revolutionary War history, with straightforward storytelling and vivid battle descriptions. Many appreciated the focus on both major figures and lesser-known participants, particularly the coverage of Benedict Arnold and King George III. Readers liked: - Clear chronological structure - Personal details about historical figures - Inclusion of maps and illustrations - Fast-paced narrative style Readers disliked: - Historical inaccuracies and errors - Oversimplified explanations of complex events - Lack of source citations - Too much focus on violence and gore Several history teachers noted they wouldn't recommend it as a primary source but see value in it as a "gateway book" to spark interest in the period. Ratings: Amazon: 4.7/5 (5,800+ reviews) Goodreads: 4.0/5 (8,900+ ratings) Barnes & Noble: 4.4/5 (300+ reviews) One common criticism: "Reads like a Hollywood script rather than serious history."

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⭐ King George III suffered from a painful and debilitating illness (likely porphyria) during crucial periods of the Revolutionary War, which may have affected his decision-making abilities. ⭐ The book is part of O'Reilly's bestselling "Killing" series, which includes titles like "Killing Lincoln," "Killing Kennedy," and "Killing Jesus," with over 17 million copies sold worldwide. ⭐ Despite being portrayed as enemies, Benjamin Franklin and King George III had previously corresponded cordially, with Franklin even staying in London for nearly two decades as a colonial representative. ⭐ During the brutal winter at Valley Forge (1777-1778), soldiers resorted to eating their leather shoes and tree bark to survive, while Washington fought to keep the Continental Army from dissolving. ⭐ Martin Dugard, O'Reilly's co-author, is a marathon runner who has completed the infamous Raid Gauloises adventure race, bringing his understanding of physical endurance to descriptions of military campaigns.