The Year That Made America: From Rebellion to Independence, 1775-1776

The untold story of how America's declaration of independence hinged on seven critical months in 1776 and the courageous votes that changed the world forever.

This gripping account reveals the precarious path to American independence through a series of pivotal dates that history has nearly forgotten. While July 4th claims the glory, the actual vote for independence came on July 2nd--and even that historic moment almost didn't happen. From January's publication of Common Sense to December's darkest hours of the Revolution, McMillan reconstructs the dramatic months when rebellious colonies transformed into a new nation.

Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book reveals:

• How the pivotal votes of May 15, June 7, and July 2 shaped America's destiny
• Why Congress's bold January declaration triggered a chain of unstoppable events
• The behind-the-scenes struggles between Adams and Jefferson that nearly derailed independence
• How the Declaration's influence extended from Lincoln's Gettysburg Address to modern times

This timely narrative strips away the myths to expose the raw political courage that launched a revolution. From heated Congressional debates to the dangerous aftermath of declaring independence, McMillan delivers a fresh perspective on America's founding that resonates powerfully with today's political challenges.

Tom McMillan, a retired sports PR executive and lifelong student of history, has served on the board of trustees of Pittsburgh's Heinz History Center, the board of directors of Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial, and the marketing committee of the Gettysburg Foundation. Topics of his previous books range from 9/11 to the Star-Spangled Banner to the Battle of Gettysburg. McMillan has a journalism degree from Point Park University and spent 25 years as VP of Communications for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL. He lives in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.