Chronicles and examines the American Revolution, discussing its character and its consequences, covering such topics as republicanism, the Philadelphia Convention, and the debate between the Federalists and Anti-Federalists.

"A Modern Library chronicles book."

Chronology -- Origins: Growth and movement of population -- Economic expansion -- Reform of the British empire -- American resistance: British reaction -- Deepening of the crisis -- The imperial debate -- Revolution: Approach to independence -- Declaration of Independence -- Asylum for liberty -- Constitution-making and war: State constitutions -- Articles of Confederation -- War for Independence -- Republicanism: Need for virtue -- Rising glory of America -- Equality -- New world order -- Republican society: Effects of the war -- Effects of the Revolution -- Republican reforms -- Antislavery -- Republican religion -- Federal Constitution: Critical period -- Philadelphia convention -- Federalist-anti-Federalist debate.