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!