This lavishly illustrated, visually stimulating, and easy-to-read book explores one of the most important periods of Western history - the American War of Independence. Stand shoulder to shoulder with the patriot armies, as the first salvos of rebellion fire on Lexington Green in 1775. Follow this gripping story as George Washington leads his militia through eight years of twists and turns to throw off British rule and create an independent United States of America. American War of Independence sets out key events from the Boston Tea Party to the Declaration of Independence. Also included are battles such as Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Chesapeake, and finally the American victory at Yorktown and the historic Treaty of Paris in 1783. Fascinating contemporary accounts from soldiers on both sides bring the war to life, and indepth profiles of key players from King George III to Thomas Jefferson give balance and context. This indispensable volume also discusses political ideas at the time, and describes how war was conducted. It highlights each side's weaponry and uniforms, treatment of the wounded and prisoners, involvement of the French and other nations, and even the duplicity of double agents such as Benedict Arnold. Packed with contemporary accounts and documents, American War of Independence is a unique visual narrative of a pivotal turning point in world history.