Yorktown: Climax of the Revolution

"Yorktown: Climax of the Revolution" by Jr. Charles E. Hatch and Thomas M. Pitkin is a historical account written in the early to mid-20th century, specifically in the 1940s. The book provides a detailed narrative of the Siege of Yorktown, which was a pivotal battle in the American Revolutionary War that ultimately led to the surrender of British General Cornwallis. This work is positioned as part of the National Park Service's Source Book Series and aims to illuminate the experiences of various individuals involved in this decisive military engagement. The book recounts the events leading up to the Siege of Yorktown through the testimonies of key participants, including Cornwallis, as well as American and French commanders like Washington, Lafayette, and Hamilton. It details Cornwallis's strategy to fortify Yorktown, the combined French and American forces’ maneuvers, and the intense bombardment that led to the British surrender. Highlighted are moments of tension, counterattacks, and the grim reality faced by soldiers on both sides. The text is rich with contemporary accounts that lend authenticity to its portrayal of the siege, emphasizing its significance not only in the context of the war but also for the birth of a new nation. The climax of the book encapsulates the emotions surrounding the surrender and the consequent realization of independence for the United States.