Name: "The Year That Made America" Book Launch
Start: 2025-04-24T18:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-04-24T19:30:00-04:00
Location: Heinz History Center

"The Year That Made America" Book Launch

Learn the untold story behind America’s precarious path to independence.
Join author and historian Tom McMillan for the official launch of his new book, “The Year That Made America: From Rebellion to Independence, 1775-1776.”
This gripping book combines meticulous research with compelling storytelling to reveal how a series of pivotal dates shaped America’s destiny. While July 4 claims the glory, the actual vote for independence came on July 2—and even that historic moment almost didn’t happen. 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.
Following the program, McMillan will sign copies of his book for attendees. The book is currently available to pre-order with event registration and will also be for sale at the program.
This program is part of the History Center’s America 101 history and civics initiative.
Admission
The program is $5 for non-members and FREE for History Center members.
Please register in advance online to reserve your spot at https://www.heinzhistorycenter.org/event/the-year-that-made-america-book-launch/
For additional questions, please contact [email protected].
About the Author
Tom McMillan recently retired after a 43-year career in Pittsburgh sports media and marketing, including 25 years as VP/Communications for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Now he spends his time studying and writing about his true passion: history.
Tom is the author of five books on American history, including “The Year That Made America,” which recounts the intense political battle that led to the Declaration of Independence. He has also written two books on the Battle of Gettysburg and one each on September 11 and the Star-Spangled Banner.
He is a former member of the board of trustees of the Heinz History Center and the board of directors of the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial. A former sportswriter for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, he has a journalism degree from Point Park University. Tom and his wife, Colleen, who helps him with research, split their time between Pittsburgh and Gettysburg.