Frank Warren Coburn
The Battle of April 19, 1775
in Lexington, Concord, Lincoln, Arlington, Cambridge, Somerville and Charlestown, Massachusetts
"The Battle of April 19, 1775" by Frank Warren Coburn is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the events surrounding the battles of Lexington and Concord, crucial moments in the American Revolutionary War. Coburn aims to capture not only the military actions but also the sentiments and responses of the local populace, highlighting the widespread impact of the battles across different communities. The opening of this narrative sets the scene for the unfolding conflict by outlining the tense political climate leading up to April 19, 1775, and the consequences of British taxation policies on colonial sentiment. It details the preparations and organizations that emerged as tensions escalated, including the formation of local militias and the establishment of alarm systems to alert communities of British movements. Using various historical accounts and firsthand reports, Coburn lays the groundwork for an exploration of how everyday citizens became involved in the struggle for independence, foreshadowing the chaos and heroism that will characterize the battles themselves.