During the Revolutionary War, George Washington's Continental Army -- the United States' first army -- fought bravely for six and a half years. Despite casualties, short terms of enlistment, desertions, mutinies, and the misery of Valley Forge, there were always enough spirited men to keep fighting for American freedom. Victories in the vital battles of Trenton, Princeton, and Monmouth proved how valuable the Continental Army was to American history. In The Revolutionary War and George Washington's Army in American History, author Tom McGowen explores the failures and successes of the Continental Army under the leadership of George Washington. He traces the army's growth from a ragtag mob of brave but inexperienced farmers and workingmen into a force of disciplined, battle-hardened soldiers who could hold their own against any opponent. Book jacket.