Ordinary Courage: The Revolutionary War Adventures of Private Joseph Plumb Martin

This classic memoir of the American Revolution puts into question long-cherished national myths about a committed populace struggling for liberty. Martin's story is told from the perspective of patriots who endured the hardships of long-term service in Washington's army. First published over 175 years ago, this book, with its humor, frankness, and pathos, is thought-provoking firsthand reading for today's college students.