I like these short histories as they give me quick information about historical events, people and things about which I have little knowledge.
I have recently been reading some historical fiction about the American War of Independence and realised that my knowledge of that time (having been educated in England) is sadly lacking. While I know something about John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers, I knew very little about the key military and political leader George Washington.
I didn't realise that Washington was a southerner who started his working life as a surveyor. I also didn't realise that he was initially reluctant to take up the cause of independence or to become a military leader. I did know that he was the first President of the United States but didn't realise the part he played in setting up the US government system that has been so fundamental in creating the important nation that we all know so well.
In about an hour Mark Black gave me a short history of this man who was to become one of the most revered leaders in history. It was enough to whet my appetite to find out more about this extraordinary man.
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