The American Revolution

Driven close to financial collapse by the French and Indian War, England turns for help to the colonies that had fought at its side; the new taxes, imposed without representation, outrage people who consider themselves fully English.

Britain's understanding of its ancient, although unwritten, style of government places it at odds with that of its colonists; the colonists see in John Locke's theories not a hypothetical thought experiment, but an argument for autonomy.

What the typical British soldier and officers are like; knowing how the troops are organized and equipped; meeting the forces expected to maintain order in the increasingly rebellious colonies.

Tensions escalate and the first Continental Congress convenes; King George III finally heeds a request for reinforcements; nevertheless, the British sorely underestimate American militia and suffer a humiliating defeat at Lexington and Concord.

Benedict Arnold helps win a key victory at New York's Fort Ticonderoga; the Second Continental Congress authorizes a new army under George Washington, a soldier aware of the implications of the conflict; the risk of potentially rebellious slaves.

Whether rebel militia can stand up to British regulars; a brutal battle where the British pay dearly for their victory; Washington arrives to find disorganization and a reluctance to set aside regional differences in favor of a national army.