Crucible of War

The Seven Years' War and the Fate of Empire in British North America, 1754-1766

De: Fred Anderson

Narrado por: Paul Woodson

In this vivid and compelling narrative, the Seven Years' War - long seen as a mere backdrop to the American Revolution - takes on a whole new significance. Relating the history of the war as it developed, Anderson shows how the complex array of forces brought into conflict helped both to create Britain's empire and to sow the seeds of its eventual dissolution.

Beginning with a skirmish in the Pennsylvania backcountry involving an inexperienced George Washington, the Iroquois chief Tanaghrisson, and the ill-fated French emissary Jumonville, Anderson reveals a chain of events that would lead to world conflagration. Weaving together the military, economic, and political motives of the participants with unforgettable portraits of Washington, William Pitt, Montcalm, and many others, Anderson brings a fresh perspective to one of America's most important wars, demonstrating how the forces unleashed there would irrevocably change the politics of empire in North America.

©2000 Fred Anderson (P)2018 Tantor

Phenomenal Book

Essential for understanding the roots of the Revolution. Extremely well researched, detailed but still an easy listen. Must read/listen.

Only caveat: the narrator has a brutal whistle on his "s"s... It'll sting the ears, but keep you awake if driving!

Important history

Perhaps more important now, during a time when attacks seem to be thrown towards generic groups of people without a basis of historical facts, Crucible of War provides amazing insight to North American and pre-1776 history

History of Pre-US

This book mostly focuses on the events of the Seven Years War from an American and British point of view. Also, most of the focus was on events in North America. I thought it might mention more about the events of the war in Europe, and it does mention them, but those battles definitely take second stage. I started this book very curious about how 13 colonies, functioning like sudo countries, would become unified later on. I was not disappointed. I also learned a lot of things I had not expected, like how VERY difficult it was to integrate British troops with continental troops in the war, or how strange the Pennsylvania colonial government worked during the 1750-60s. I had also always heard that George Washington got his experience in this war and was surprised to hear how central he was in the beginning.

P.S. I saw some other reviews for this book talking about how terrible colonists treated the Indians or how this book is too politically correct when mentioning the Indians. I just personally wanted to know which was correct. After reading the book I think both readers were just expressing their political views in book review form. There is plenty written about interactions with the Indians here in this book, especially after the end of the invasion of Canada; the empire immediately enters into the Cherokee War, almost as a continuation of the same war. Which explains why Americans remember this as the French and Indian War. We hear about some horrible actions from both sides. Although the empire was not malicious as a policy, certain individuals definitely were. The Indian tribes were not passive recipients of aggression either and fought for the French, British, or self interests as well. But just to remind you, this book is mostly told from an American/British perspective with some French, Canadian, and Indian perspective brought up as needed

Comprehensive look at the war *before* the American Revolution.

We don’t spend much time on the French & Indian War in school but understanding it gives so much deeper insight into the Revolutionary War and understanding about who we are today.

Fortunately, this story is amazing in its breadth between battling empires, colorful characters, and the highest of stakes. Fred Anderson brings all of these together in a way that’s both comprehensive and accessible. That being said, this isn’t a casual beach read. Juggling names, places, and agendas of all the European and native people can be a challenge but well worth it!

Very well done

I was looking for a book to explain the fighting in North America primarily. As a military history buff I would of loved to learn more about battles in Europe. more on that in a bit.

The author covers the entire North American conflict including politics and culture beautifully. As you read early American history you constantly hear about Braddocks disastrous march as well as Washingtons first war experience. I wanted to learn more and Crucible was great in that respect.

The only thing lacking was details on the war in Europe. Highly recommend regardless.