S8 Ep587: 6. Joseph Ellis, *The Cause: The American Revolution and Its Discontents, 1773 to 1783*. Washington’s decision to defend New York, an "indefensible" archipelago, nearly lost the war in its first month. He felt bound by civilian control to hold the positio

6. Joseph Ellis, *The Cause: The American Revolution and Its Discontents, 1773 to 1783*. Washington’s decision to defend New York, an "indefensible" archipelago, nearly lost the war in its first month. He felt bound by civilian control to hold the position despite military advice, while his primary goal remained building a disciplined, drafted army to replace unreliable militias. The Howe brotherscomplicated the British effort by acting as peace commissioners who sought reconciliation rather than the total destruction of Washington’s forces. This hesitation, combined with a "standing miracle" of timely fog, allowed Washington to execute a daring escape across the East River and keep the cause alive. (6)
1761 PALAIS-ROYAL PARIS