Valiant Ambition

By Nathaniel Philbrick,

Book cover of Valiant Ambition: George Washington, Benedict Arnold, and the Fate of the American Revolution

Book description

A New York Times Bestseller
Winner of the George Washington Prize

A surprising account of the middle years of the American Revolution and the tragic relationship between George Washington and Benedict Arnold, from the New York Times bestselling author of In The Heart of the Sea, Mayflower, and In the…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked Valiant Ambition as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Nathaniel Philbrick is one of our most talented historical storytellers. I admire this book because of the sophisticated narrative he crafts, exploring the tensions of the Revolution through the relationship between George Washington and Benedict Arnold.

Washington was a central player in Arnold’s military life. He recognized the value of his spirited general and sought to protect his reputation against political rivalries. And yet, had Arnold’s treason at West Point succeeded, it is possible that Washington himself might have been captured there by the British. Philbrick demonstrates how, paradoxically, as the public’s commitment to the war began to waver, Arnold’s…

From Brian's list on life and treason of Benedict Arnold.

Nathaniel Philbrick produces what we call “Dad History,” but despite that, I find this book on George Washington and Benedict Arnold’s relationship to be the most exciting out there. You’ll be surprised at how much they had in common, but their differences matter most.

From Alexis' list on George Washington.

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