Amazon Best of the Month, October 2007: With apologies to local museums, it's hard to imagine an interactive look at the birth of American independence that exceeds 1776: The Illustrated Edition. Packed with striking replicas of letters, maps, and portraits, this updated version of David McCullough's 2005 bestseller provides readers with unedited first-hand accounts of America's initial steps toward sovereignty. Its engaging narrative blends beautifully with personal notes from iconic leaders and reveals the determination, bravery, and good ol' blind luck that founded our country. --Dave Callanan

With a new introduction by David McCullough, 1776: The Illustrated Edition brings 140 powerful images and 37 removable replicas of source documents to this remarkable drama.

In 1776, David McCullough's bestselling account of a pivotal year in our nation's struggle, readers learned of the greatest defeats, providential fortune, and courageous triumphs of George Washington and his bedraggled army. Now, in 1776: The Illustrated Edition, the efforts of the Continental Army are made even more personal, as an excerpted version of the original book is paired with letters, maps, and seminal artwork. More than three dozen source documents -- including a personal letter George Washington penned to Martha about his commission, a note informing the mother of a Continental soldier that her son has been taken prisoner, and a petition signed by Loyalists pledging their allegiance to the King -- are re-created in uniquely designed envelopes throughout the book and secured with the congressional seal.

Both a distinctive art book and a collectible archive, 1776: The Illustrated Edition combines a treasury of eighteenth-century paintings, sketches, documents, and maps with storytelling by our nation's preeminent historian to tell the story of 1776 as never before.

1776 is the best book I have ever read, period. And it is non-fiction. I could not put it down.

I never did well in history classes. I wish this book had been around then, though! It's a gorgeous looking book and the writing is superb. Very gripping.

What an absolute delight to read, study, own, and display. The narrative is superb and the surprises hidden between the pages just waiting for you to open and explore, reminds me of Christmas morning.This is top shelf material. You will take pride in owning. Don't deny yourself this edition. It will yield a life time of pleasure.

Great book, gives you a different perspective into the individuals that are part of that time in history.

Excellent book looked at various places and amazon was found to be the cheapest and very fast shipping