The Small and the Mighty: Twelve Unsung Americans Who Changed the Course of History By Sharon McMahon

In The Small and the Mighty, Sharon McMahon offers a captivating exploration of twelve ordinary Americans whose remarkable courage shaped the nation. This heartfelt portrait illuminates the lives of those often overlooked in history books—telephonists, schoolteachers, and everyday heroes. Through meticulous research, McMahon brings forth the rich narratives of individuals like a woman on a white horse riding down Pennsylvania Avenue, a young boy in a Japanese incarceration camp, and a formerly enslaved woman determined to reunite with her daughter.

Each story highlights the profound impact of these unsung characters, revealing their struggles, triumphs, and the complexities of their lives. From bombings to unexpected riches—both material and spiritual—these narratives weave a tapestry of resilience and hope. McMahon emphasizes that greatness is not confined to the famous; it resides in those who dare to act with integrity and compassion.

This book is not just a collection of stories but an invitation to recognize the often-unseen contributions of ordinary people in the pursuit of justice, peace, and freedom. As readers journey through these compelling tales, they will find familiar friends in McMahon’s cast of improbable champions, inspiring them to reflect on the qualities that truly make America—and its people—great.