The Oxford History of the United States

The Oxford History of the United States is a multi-volume series covering American history from colonial times through the late 20th century. Robert Middlekauff's contribution focuses on the Revolutionary period from 1763-1789, examining the transformation of British colonies into an independent nation. The book traces key events leading to revolution, from British taxation policies to growing colonial resistance and eventual warfare. Through military campaigns, political developments, and social changes, Middlekauff chronicles how thirteen disparate colonies united to challenge the British Empire. The narrative incorporates perspectives from multiple sides - British officials, colonial leaders, common soldiers, and civilians caught in the conflict. Primary sources and detailed research bring forth the voices and experiences of those who lived through this pivotal era. This history explores the deeper currents of ideology, identity, and nationhood that shaped America's founding period. The work demonstrates how the revolution was not just a political break from Britain, but a complex transformation of society and culture.

Readers note the book's depth of research and comprehensive coverage of colonial America through the Revolutionary period. Many appreciate the detailed military strategy explanations and Middlekauff's analysis of political developments leading to independence. Likes: - Clear writing style makes complex topics accessible - Strong focus on social and economic factors beyond just military events - Thorough examination of British perspective - Extensive primary source usage Dislikes: - Some find the military sections too lengthy and technical - Writing can be dry and academic at times - Less coverage of women's and Native American perspectives - Several readers mention difficulty getting through dense middle chapters Ratings: Goodreads: 4.13/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (380+ ratings) Common review quotes: "Incredibly detailed but requires commitment to finish" "Best single-volume account of the period" "Military sections could be shortened" "Strong on politics, weaker on social history"

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🔷 The Oxford History of the United States series was originally conceived and planned by prestigious historian C. Vann Woodward, who served as the general editor until his death in 1999. 🔷 Robert Middlekauff's volume "The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763-1789" won the Bancroft Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in American historical writing. 🔷 The author spent over 20 years as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where he also served as the Director of the Huntington Library. 🔷 Despite being part of a series, each volume is designed to stand alone as a complete work, with Middlekauff's contribution focusing extensively on the intellectual origins of the American Revolution. 🔷 The series name "Oxford History of the United States" was deliberately chosen to echo the famous Oxford History of England series, setting similar high standards for comprehensive historical scholarship.