The book in this kit sets the scene for the Revolutionary War by explaining the dissatisfaction felt by the colonists in the mid 1700s. Key occurrences described in the book include the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the appointment of General George Washington as commander in chief of the patriot forces. Pivotal battles described include the Battle of Fort Ticonderoga, the Battle of Long Island, the Battle of Saratoga, and the Battle of Yorktown. It also describes the effects of the war on the economy. (class set of books/teacher's guide/12 map trancparencies/ map activities blackline masters/big book with guide).