Though John Hancock, President of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence, only two future presidents, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were among the signatories.
Benjamin Franklin holds the Declaration of Independence which declared the thirteen American colonies independent sovereign states, and no longer a part of the British Empire. At age 70, Franklin was the oldest signer.
George Washington is made head of the Continental Army in an attempt to retake Boston. However, Gage already has hundreds of British warships on their way to the New World.
The battle for independence begins after Paul Revere’s ride sets off the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill. Desperate for help, Sam and John Adams, along with Hancock, again travel to Philadelphia hoping to convince the other colonies this was the time to fight for independence.
The Sons of Liberty hold up their "Join, or Die" flag. This political cartoon by Benjamin Franklin was used to encourage unity against British rule. It became a symbol of colonial freedom during the war.
John Hancock and Sam Adams attend the First Continental Congress, but are denied any aid by the other colonies. George Washington, however, sides with them and recommends that the Sons of Liberty begin to arm themselves as war is inevitable.
Dr. Warren and Margaret Gage meet after her husband demonstrates his cruelty in the town square. Joseph is instantly taken with Margaret's compassion and kindness.
John Hancock and Sam Adams strike a deal when Hancock offers to wipe Sam’s debt clean. After the British seize his ship and all its contents, Hancock and Sam become partners smuggling untaxed goods into Boston. This ultimately escalates into the Boston Massacre and the colonists begin fighting for their freedom.