In his latest work, H.W. Brands delves into the complexities of American history with “Our First Civil War: Patriots and Loyalists in the American Revolution.” This book, released on January 9, 2026, challenges the traditional narrative that all colonists were unified in their quest for independence from British rule. Instead, Brands highlights the significant divide among the thirteen colonies and the individuals who inhabited them.
The common perception is that the American Revolution saw a collective uprising against British authority. However, Brands argues that many colonists, known as Loyalists, sought to maintain their ties to the British Empire, resisting the push for independence. This division, he suggests, exemplifies a civil war within the colonies, as differing loyalties led to conflict and upheaval.
Central to Brands’ narrative are prominent figures such as George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. Both men are portrayed as initially hesitant to advocate for independence. Washington, who served as an officer in the British Army, and Franklin, who lobbied for British reconsideration on colonial taxes, demonstrate the complexities of loyalty and identity during this tumultuous period. Their eventual shift towards advocating for independence underscores a broader struggle within the colonies.
The book also provides a poignant examination of personal loyalties through the lens of Franklin’s family. While Franklin became a leading voice for the independence movement, his son, William Franklin, remained steadfast in his loyalty to the British crown, serving as the royal governor of New Jersey. This familial rift adds a deeply personal dimension to the historical narrative, illustrating the painful choices individuals faced during the revolution.
Brands is known for his extensive contributions to American history, having authored numerous acclaimed works that span various eras. His previous books include “Heirs of the Founders,” which explores the period between the Revolution and the Civil War, and “American Colossus,” detailing the rise of American capitalism. In “Our First Civil War,” he provides a thorough account of the events leading to the American Revolution, focusing on the conflicts between Patriots and Loyalists.
One notable chapter, titled “Lawrence Growden’s Daughter,” exemplifies the testing of loyalties during the revolution. Through such narratives, Brands emphasizes the personal struggles that characterized this pivotal moment in history. While the book’s focus on Washington and Franklin is prominent, a broader exploration of similar individual stories could have strengthened the argument for viewing the American Revolution as a civil war.
By exploring the nuances of loyalty and identity, H.W. Brands offers readers a fresh perspective on the founding of the United States. “Our First Civil War” serves as a reminder that the journey to independence was fraught with internal conflict, challenging the notion of a united front against British rule. As history continues to be re-evaluated, Brands’ compelling narrative invites reflection on the complexities that shaped the nation.
