58 pages 1 hour read

David McCullough

1776

Nonfiction | Book | Adult

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Important Quotes

Quotation Mark Icon

“Perseverance and spirit have done wonders in all ages.” 


(Page 11, George Washington)

This quote from Washington seems prescient, coming so early in the text. It reflects his status as a self-made man, as perseverance and a strong will are crucial traits in schooling oneself in general education as well as politics and military strategy. This quote also reflects the character of the Continental Army, which was comprised not of well-armed and professionally trained soldiers but volunteers, tradesmen, farmers—regular people who were united by a common cause. McCollough ultimately argues that the biggest miracle of the Revolutionary War was that this ragtag army accomplished all it did despite having so little. He attributes this success to traits like perseverance and spirit.

Quotation Mark Icon

“Every Machiavellian policy is now to be vindicated towards the people of America.” 


(Page 25, George Johnstone)

Various opinions were expressed as the British Parliament discussed the potential of war with the colonies. Some were loath to fight their “brethren,” fearing it would lead to civil war or otherwise ruin Britain. Some cautioned that the British Empire could not afford to lose America, given its wealth and resources. Others, however, insisted the rebellion must be quelled with strong and decisive action, a position vehemently supported by George Johnstone in the above quotation.

Related Titles

By David McCullough

SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Study Guide
David McCullough
Guide cover image
SuperSummary Logo
Plot Summary
David McCullough
Guide cover placeholder
SuperSummary Logo
Study Guide
David McCullough
Guide cover image
SuperSummary Logo
Study Guide
David McCullough
Guide cover image
SuperSummary Logo
Study Guide
David McCullough
Guide cover image