Book Review: Valley Forge

The sequel to To Try Men's Souls, Valley Forge tells the story of the transformation of the ragtag American soldiers, who had repeatedly been defeated by the well-trained British, into an army capable of standing before the British fire without retreating. Much of the credit for this change (that eventually won the Revolution) goes to Inspector General Baron Friedrich von Stueben. 


During the dark days that followed Washington's victory at Trenton, there were many who believed Washington should be replaced. Even those like Dr. Benjamin Rush, who had previously been his staunch supporters, turned on Washington, believing he was no longer able to win the war. General Gates, who hoped to replace Washington, was waging his own war of defamation against the Commander in Chief with the members of Congress. So intent was he on his mission, that Gates retreated with Congress when they fled Philadelphia. Spending all of his time elevating his own position, instead of supporting the troops, Gates made no preparations for Washington's troops, as he had agreed to do in order that Valley Forge would be ready for the weary army to spend the winter there. 


When the troops arrived at Valley Forge, nothing had been done. There was no shelter. No food. No tools. No supplies of any kind. Gates believed that if things deteriorated sufficiently, Washington would be blamed and Gates would be his replacement.  


Washington, discouraged but not defeated, continued to work toward the goal of a new nation and freedom.  Watching his men suffer was harder for him to endure than any personal physical suffering he was subjected to. So many died that winter. So many had no shoes or coats. Food was scarce. For weeks, there wasn't even shelter for the troops from the harsh weather. They lived on the ground, exposed to all the elements. Frostbite always threatened. Sentries froze to death during the long, cold nights. And yet, the stubborn belief in a new country persisted.


While in their winter encampment, von Stueben arrived. He made his case to Washington that he knew how to train the troops so they would be able to defeat the British. Washington believed him and gave him great authority. von Stueben began immediately. The challenge was formidable. The troops were not sold on the idea. von Stueben knew he was walking a tightrope: push them to far, too fast and they would rebel; don't push them hard enough, and they wouldn't be ready in time for the season of war. 


The months covered in this book were truly the crucible for the birth of a nation. Had Washington been fighting the British alone, the story could have been much different. Being required to fight those jealous of his position, the lack of long term enlistments, those who lost confidence in his ability to successfully wage the war, Congress, Tories, Loyalists, the elements, lack of supplies and simply weariness of the soul, a man made of less determination and perseverance would have conceded defeat.


The tide began to turn for the Revolution at the Battle of Monmouth. The true value of von Stueben's training methods became apparent when the American troops finally withstood the fire of an advancing British battle line without breaking. Never again would the British believe they could simply intimidate the American troops into running. Everything changed that day.


The book ends there. I am hoping there will be another sequel written soon!


As with To Try Men's Souls, I read this one with a black pen in hand to edit out the cursing so that Rebekah can read it. There didn't seem to be as much in this volume, but it was still not something I could allow her to read unedited. 


#47 out of 52 in the "Read 52 Books in 52 Weeks Challenge."