Our Founding Fathers & The American Revolution

The events that led to America's independence from England inspired many great thinkers and doers, and this volume features a broad sample of writings and addresses from a number of them. The tone is set by Patrick Henry's famous 1775 "Give me liberty or give me death" speech to the Second Virginia Convention. Connecticut clergyman Peter Thatcher delivers an impassioned presentation at a speakers' forum. General Washington inspires his troops before the Battles of Long Island and Trenton, and inspires a nation as he resigns his army commission after peace is achieved. The Declaration of Independence showcases Thomas Jefferson's powerful writing. Revolutionary activist and author Thomas Paine asserts his beliefs in excerpts from his famous tract, "These are the times that try men's souls", and his "Back to Nature" treatise. Benjamin Franklin discusses the boundless opportunities awaiting emigres to the United States.