A review by donaldleitch
1774: The Long Year of Revolution by Mary Beth Norton

informative slow-paced

4.0

Mary Beth Norton's book argues that 1774 was a pivotal year in the movement towards the American Revolution. Starting with the attempted importation of tea into Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Charleston in 1773, the book takes us step by step through the decisions and actions that led to the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775. Mary Beth Norton discusses Loyalist actions and pamphleteering and makes it clear that people in the colonies were divided in their views towards the Empire. The book does not ignore mob violence practiced primarily by outlying individuals on the Patriot side. This violence and the threat of violence against individuals, their families and property is described as "Patriotic terrorism" in the book. 1774: The Long Year of Revolution was an illuminating read.