"In his epic new book, Russell Shorto takes us back to the founding of the American nation, drawing on diaries, letters and autobiographies to flesh out six lives that cast the era in a fresh new light. They include an African man who freed himself and his family from slavery, a rebellious young woman who abandoned her abusive husband to chart her own course, and a certain Mr. Washington, who was admired for his social graces but harshly criticized for his often-disastrous military strategy. Through these lives we understand that the revolution was fought over the meaning of individual freedom, a philosophical idea that became a force for violent change. A powerful narrative and a brilliant defense of American values, Revolution Song makes the compelling case that the American Revolution is still being fought today and that its ideals are worth defending."--Jacket flap

Sons of fathers -- A tide in the affairs of men -- The turtle's back -- The charming sound of bullets -- World on fire -- This land I have made for you and not for others -- The spirit that rages -- Thirteen toasts -- Assuming command -- A natural inclination to liberty -- The city of New York will, in all human probability, very soon be the scene of a bloody conflict -- So celestial an article -- Cannons muskets drums -- White freedom -- I am your son! I am a warrior! -- Numberless meteors gleaming through the atmosphere -- The cause of humanity -- Rough hewer -- Glowing with zeal for the general happiness and improvement of mankind -- Which nothing else can equal