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; and 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!"