In "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation," Joseph J. Ellis explores the lives and interactions of key figures in American history, shedding light on their relationships and the founding of the nation. The book emphasizes the complexities of their personal and political lives, revealing how their individual characters shaped the revolutionary movement and its outcomes.

Ellis captures the essence of a gentleman in the context of early American society through a quote about Lord Chesterfield's maxim. This highlights the importance of style and demeanor in the actions of influential figures, illustrating how they navigated the challenges of their time while adhering to the social expectations of their roles.