A leading authority on American Revolutionary history, he has appeared in many documentaries and has written numerous books, including Almost a Miracle: The American Victory in the War for Independence, Adams vs. Ferling explores the choices and decisions made by Clinton and Washington, and others, that ultimately led the French and American allies to clinch the pivotal victory at Yorktown that at long last secured American independence.Īuthor Bio: John Ferling is Professor Emeritus of History at the University of West Georgia. Sir Henry Clinton, commander of Britain's army, thought “the rebellion is near its end.” Washington, who had been so optimistic in 1778, despaired: “I have almost ceased to hope.”įerling provides the dramatic story of how and why Great Britain-so close to regaining several southern colonies and rendering the postwar United States a fatally weak nation ultimately failed to win the war. By early 1781, Washington, and others, feared that France would drop out of the war if the Allies failed to score a decisive victory that year. economy collapsed and morale on the home front waned.

Deep into 1780 Britain's new approach seemed headed for success as the U.S. Meanwhile, having lost an entire army at Saratoga, Great Britain pivoted to a “southern strategy.” The army would henceforth seek to regain its southern colonies, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, a highly profitable segment of its pre-war American empire. Many, including General George Washington, presumed France's entrance into the war meant independence was just around the corner.

Thank you to our Anonymous Donor for making these free virtual events possible and thank you all for your support of the Fort Plain Museum & Historical Park!Ībout the Talk and Book: It was 1778, and the recent American victory at Saratoga had netted the U.S a powerful ally in France.

Please Click Here to Preorder Winning Independence This talk is based on Ferling's upcoming book titled: Winning Independence: The Decisive Years of the Revolutionary War, 1778-1781 This is Free Zoom event and Registration is Required. Latest News After Saratoga: The War that Britain Nearly WonĪfter Saratoga: The War that Britain Nearly Won

Almost a miracle john ferling