Scrappy farmers. Aristocratic landowners. Eccentric geniuses. These were the rebels who took on the world's greatest power - and won.

From the rebellion against "taxation without representation" to the beginnings of American self-government, readers will learn how this unlikely group of colonists shaped a new nation. This book features all readers need to know about this exciting time:

• The beginnings of colonial unrest and rebellion
• The drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence
• Major battles, including Lexington and Concord, Trenton, Saratoga, Valley Forge, and Yorktown
• Daily life for soldiers and ordinary colonists on both sides of the war
• The birth of the United States

This easy-to-read book covers all the key players and major events—from King George III and George Washington to the Boston Tea Party and the launch of a new government. The interesting facts and vivid details inside will turn any history-phobe into an enthusiastic history buff!