Tag: American Revolution
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My Favorite History: The Marquis de Lafayette in America (Part 5)
When Lafayette returned from France in 1780, he walked right into the final major phase of the American Revolution and his adoptive father, George Washington, was going to ensure he played a major role. Washington sent Lafayette south to Virginia without telling him the big secret of his mission: Washington wanted to win the war…
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John Adams (HBO)
Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for John Adams: Paul Giamatti playing a jerk. He’s the best at it! Quick synopsis: The events of John Adams’ life covered by the book of the same name by David McCullough. Fun Fact Non-History People Will Like: John Adams was the lawyer for the British soldiers accused in the Boston Massacre.…
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Musing: I Hate Thomas Jefferson
What’s this musing about: Thomas Jefferson was a moody and terrible hypocrite. I hate Thomas Jefferson. Oh, you want to know why? I’d be happy to let you know. And now, I will employ one of my favorite things: a numbered list. His supporters talk about how madly he loved his wife. There is evidence…
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My Favorite History: The Marquis de Lafayette
Ever heard of Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier? How about the Marquis? Still no? How about any of the literally dozens of places named either Fayette, Lafayette, or Fayetteville? All of these places are named after one man who is my favorite historical figure. He is the Marquis de Lafayette and he is…
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The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer/Josh Mensch
Brendan’s Alternate Tagline for The First Conspiracy: George Washington, assassins, and overwrought prose. Quick synopsis: The story of the assassination conspiracy of George Washington right before the Battle of Long Island. Fun Fact Non-History People Will Like: New Yorkers in 1770 consumed an average of 6.7 gallons of rum year per person. That is the…
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Museum Review: Mount Vernon
Museum Focus: George’s Washington’s home in Virginia. Where is it: 3200 Mount Vernon Hwy, Mt Vernon, VA 22121. What does it cost: About $20 per adult, $12 per kid. How long should I plan to stay: Mount Vernon is 500 acres. You could probably take 2 or 3 days to see everything. However, a good…