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As a proud American who, I'm ashamed to admit, knew next to nothing about the details of the Revolutionary War, McCullough's "1776" was a much-needed history lesson for me. Written lucidly and grippingly throughout, "1776" provides a strong foundation for one's study of this most critical period of our nation's history, and has inspired me to continue my own studies by reading as much as I can about the revolution and its meaning, both then and now. One also comes away with a sense of awe toward General (and later President) George Washington. The extensive bibliography that McCullough has provided is more than enough for a lifetime of study. I think that those Americans who read this book will, like me, feel more strongly patriotic and value more greatly the selflessness of those who fought for our country in its infancy. And I think that non-Americans who read it will better understand what it means to be an American, and hopefully see our country in a more favorable light. Yes, I realize that America has its problems, both currently and historically, and that we're certainly not beloved by everyone throughout the world, but it's nonetheless moving to at least try and perceive what we mean when we talk about the "American spirit": that feeling of unbounded liberty that allows us to truly pursue happiness. "1776" offers a path.