Author and Protector of Independence

“[…] directly down the lawn and across the Ellipse from the White House are those ordered, classic lines of the Jefferson Memorial and the eyes of the 19 foot statue that gaze directly into the White House…” (503).

The Book

Author Jon Meacham takes the larger-than-life Thomas Jefferson and places him in a biography that captures Jefferson’s life, thoughts, and interactions. Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power is split into sections that represent the “acts” of Jefferson’s life: early life, American Revolution, Governor, Congressional Representative, Diplomat, Secretary of War, Vice President, President, and last days. Most of Jefferson’s political life hinged on his defining vision, “the survival and success of popular government in America” (xx).

Thomas Jefferson is a familiar figure to Americans. What sets this biography apart is the inclusion of Jefferson’s own words. The reader is able to read what Jefferson thought about the Declaration of Independence or the difficulties of being the president. Each chapter weaves Jefferson’s words and the words of his relatives with the author’s words. By relying on Jefferson’s words, Meacham provides the means for the reader to visualize and understand Jefferson.

Thomas Jefferson: The Art of Power does not shy away from the controversies in Jefferson’s life or the clashes he had with other significant Americans. Jefferson was a strong personality who held strong beliefs, which he sometimes contradicted in practice. The biography is well-researched and well-written. Readers familiar with Jefferson will be introduced to new stories and the words of Jefferson. Readers unfamiliar with Jefferson will find this biography easy to read and come to realize the significance of America’s third president.

The Place

The Jefferson Memorial in located on the National Mall in Washington, DC. As a part of the National Park Service, the Memorial is free and always open for visitors. Inside the Memorial is a 19 foot statue of Thomas Jefferson and inscribed, on the walls, are various quotes by Jefferson.

It is impressive for any visitor to walk into the Rotunda and gaze up at one of the Founding Fathers. The quotes on liberty and government remind the visitor of Jefferson’s insight. Outside the Rotunda, visitors to can walk down the steps to the edge of the Tidal Basin. The Jefferson Memorial also offers one of the best views of the Cherry Blossom trees. They are usually in bloom in March and April.

Military Drill for Independence

“[Baron von Steuben’s] name was linked inextricably to the rebirth of the army, a rebirth that had taken place in the snows of Valley Forge” (166).

The Book

The Drillmaster of Valley Forge by Paul Lockhart is an insightful look into Baron von Steuben; the man credited with training the Continental Army at Valley Forge in 1778. However, Steuben’s story is much broader than his months at Valley Forge.

Steuben was born into the military society of Prussia and joined the Prussian infantry at the age of 16, in 1746. The Prussian army was considered one of the premier militaries of that time and Steuben learned valuable lessons to be used later in his life. After being dismissed from the Prussian army in 1763, Steuben moved from job to job. In 1777, he was recruited by an American agent and soon left for America. Steuben arrived in Valley Forge (February 1778) where he spent time observing the army and providing advice to Washington. In March, Steuben was given his first assignment: train the army. It was impossible to do it all by himself, so Steuben trained a select few who returned to their regiments to train others. The army made quick progress, which was noticed and appreciated by many.

For many Americans, this is where Steuben’s story ends. Lockhart’s biography details the rest of Steuben’s major contributions. He acted as a scout, using his Prussian training to predict British movements, and served as a commander of troops during battles. Outside of training the army at Valley Forge, Steuben had three lasting impacts. He composed a book of military regulations, which drew from Prussian and French regulations and was adapted to the American mindset. The “Blue Book” was the official regulation through the War of 1812. Steuben also proposed a military academy (eventually West Point) and his high regard for discipline is still evident in the army.

Throughout the book, Lockhart writes in a way that is easily accessible for most readers, intertwining Steuben’s story with the fight for independence. It is a military biography, so there is an emphasis on military maneuvers, training, and terminology. But, the book would not be complete without this military emphasis. The reader feels like she can visualize the chaos and uncertainty of the time period, and fully understand Baron von Steuben’s imprint on America.

The Place

Valley Forge is located about 3o miles northwest of Philadelphia. The park grounds have separate operating hours than the Visitor Center, Washington’s Headquarters, Train Station, Washington Memorial Chapel, and Varnum’s Quarters. It is important to check the hours before visiting the park. Because Valley Forge is a part of the National Park Service, entrance is free.

I would recommend beginning your visit at the Visitor Center. It provides an overview of Valley Forge and numerous artifacts from the winter encampment. After the Visitor Center, you are ready to roam Valley Forge. Both driving self-guided and trolley guided tours are available. The tours will take you past replica cabins that soldiers would have stayed in, the home Washington used as his headquarters, and the plain where Steuben trained and drilled the army. Valley Forge is a significant place to visit and serves as a reminder of the work and sacrifice for American independence.