Episodes
In Order to Be Free (May 1754 – May 1775)
3.8Opposition in colonial North America to British policies over taxes, land and sovereignty escalates into violent confrontation; war gives 13 colonies a common cause.
116 min
An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 – July 1776)
3.6Congress puts George Washington in command of a new Continental Army; Congress declares American independence in July 1776.
124 min
The Times That Try Men's Souls (July 1776 – January 1777)
4.0British General Howe defeats General Washington, forcing the Americans to abandon New York; Washington's army regroups in New Jersey before attacking an outpost at Trenton.
115 min
Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 – February 1778)
3.6General Howe takes Philadelphia, but the Americans' surprising victory over General Burgoyne at Saratoga encourages France to support the U.S.
116 min
The Soul of All America (December 1777 – May 1780)
3.6The French-American alliance changes the war and moves it to other theaters; navies battle off England and in the Caribbean, while armies advance in Indian Country and the South; the British take Charleston.
114 min
The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 – Onward)
3.7British General Cornwallis struggles to pacify the southern states; supported by the French, a victory at Yorktown secures independence for the Americans.
131 min