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The American Revolution

Episode 5: Introduction

France and Spain join the war against Britain, continuing the series of wars between the European Empires for the prize of North America. The weary Continental Army settles in Valley Forge for the winter, where they suffer from a lack of supplies, brutal winter storms and outbreaks of deadly diseases like typhus and influenza. The fight for independence hangs by a thread.

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The Most Sacred Thing (May 1780 – Onward)
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2:10:41
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
The Soul of All America (December 1777 – May 1780)
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1:53:53
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
Conquer by a Drawn Game (January 1777 – February 1778)
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1:55:38
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
The Times That Try Men’s Souls (July 1776 – January 1777)
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1:54:35
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
An Asylum for Mankind (May 1775 – July 1776)
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2:04:18
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
In Order to Be Free (May 1754 – May 1775)
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1:56:09
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.
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