The Fate of the Day: The War for America | Rick Atkinson Moderated by: Gen. David H. Petraeus 

Rick Atkinson reflects on the Revolutionary War and the fragile, improbable birth of the United States, drawing from his latest work, The Fate of the Day: The War for America. In conversation with Gen. David H. Petraeus, Atkinson examines the military strategy, political uncertainty, and individual leadership that shaped the struggle for independence. Their discussion explores how battlefield decisions, civilian resolve, and international dynamics converged at a decisive moment in history, illuminating the contingencies, sacrifices, and competing visions that defined the nation’s founding. The New Orleans Book Festival brings the world’s leading authors to Tulane University for a multi-day celebration of their works. The Festival features both fiction and non-fiction and convenes readings, panel discussions, symposia and keynote speeches. It provides an opportunity for outlets, authors and readers to interact with each other in one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in the world.