The First Conspiracy by Brad Meltzer & Josh Mensch Summary

The First Conspiracy reveals a clandestine 1776 plot to assassinate or capture George Washington, orchestrated by British loyalists and members of his own security detail. The book blends historical analysis with thriller-like pacing, uncovering how counterfeit currency, jailhouse confessions, and early American counterintelligence efforts thwarted the scheme. It highlights Washington’s leadership during the Revolutionary War’s precarious early months.

History enthusiasts, fans of political thrillers, and readers interested in espionage origins will find this book compelling. Its narrative-driven style appeals to those who enjoy David McCullough’s works or Brad Meltzer’s signature blend of fact and suspense. The book also suits educators seeking immersive Revolutionary War accounts.

Yes, particularly for its gripping exploration of a rarely documented historical episode. Meltzer and co-author Josh Mensch balance scholarly rigor with accessible storytelling, earning praise from figures like Bill Clinton. The book’s revelation about early U.S. counterintelligence ties to modern agencies adds contemporary relevance.

While often described as an assassination plot, evidence suggests the conspirators aimed to capture Washington alive. British loyalists, including New York’s Governor William Tryon, sought to destabilize the Continental Army by taking its leader prisoner—a strategic move to demoralize colonists and negotiate surrender.

The book depicts Washington as a pragmatic leader facing immense pressure, both militarily and politically. It emphasizes his ability to inspire loyalty while navigating betrayal, showcasing his role in developing counterintelligence tactics that protected the Revolution.

Meltzer and Mensch drew from archival materials, including trial transcripts, letters, and British military records. Key sources include testimonies from convicted conspirator Thomas Hickey and documents detailing Washington’s creation of a spy network to root out treason.

Unlike Meltzer’s fiction thrillers (The Escape Artist), this non-fiction account retains his trademark suspense but grounds it in meticulous research. It parallels his investigative approach in The Nazi Conspiracy while focusing on America’s foundational era.

Counterfeit Continental currency was used to finance the conspiracy and undermine the colonial economy. British operatives distributed fake bills to destabilize faith in the Revolution’s financial system, a tactic Washington countered by tracking the money’s origins.

Some scholars note the speculative dialogue and dramatized scenes common in narrative non-fiction. However, the authors clarify where primary sources are scarce, and the core account aligns with documented events like Hickey’s trial.

Washington’s response to the plot—creating a secret committee to investigate treason—laid groundwork for intelligence practices later formalized by agencies like the CIA. The book frames this as a pivotal moment in institutionalizing espionage defenses.

Thomas Hickey, a Continental Army soldier and bodyguard, was executed publicly to deter further treason. Other accomplices, including New York Mayor David Mathews, faced arrest but avoided severe punishment due to political complexities.

The book underscores timeless themes of leadership during crisis and the fragility of democratic movements. Its insights into disinformation and loyalty resonate in contemporary discussions about governance and security.