Historians have long considered the Battle of Monmouth one of the most
complicated engagements of the American Revolution. Fought on Sunday,
June 28, 1778, Monmouth was critical to the success of the Revolution.
It also marked a decisive turning point in the military career of George
Washington. Without the victory at Monmouth Courthouse, Washington's
critics might well have marshaled the political strength to replace him
as the American commander-in-chief. Authors Mark Edward Lender and Garry
Wheeler Stone argue that in political terms, the Battle of Monmouth
constituted a pivotal moment in the War for Independence.
Viewing the political and military aspects of the campaign as
inextricably entwined, this book offers a fresh perspective on
Washington's role in it. Drawing on a wide range of historical
sources-many never before used, including archaeological evidence-Lender
and Stone disentangle the true story of Monmouth and provide the most
complete and accurate account of the battle, including both American and
British perspectives. In the course of their account it becomes evident
that criticism of Washington's performance in command was considerably
broader and deeper than previously acknowledged. In light of
long-standing practical and ideological questions about his vision for
the Continental Army and his ability to win the war, the outcome at
Monmouth-a hard-fought tactical draw-was politically insufficient for
Washington. Lender and Stone show how the general's partisans,
determined that the battle for public opinion would be won in his favor,
engineered a propaganda victory for their chief that involved the
spectacular court-martial of Major General Charles Lee, the
second-ranking officer of the Continental Army.
Replete with poignant anecdotes, folkloric incidents, and stories of
heroism and combat brutality; filled with behind-the-scenes action and
intrigue; and teeming with characters from all walks of life, Fatal
Sunday gives us the definitive view of the fateful Battle of Monmouth.
