Freedom & Revolution

Résumé du livre

This book tells you about the American colonists' fight for freedom and for independence from the British Crown, and also about the French Revolution and how it affected the English-speaking world. The 18th century and early 19th century saw radical changes in the agricultural and industrial life of England, which drastically altered the face of the countryside. More towns, factories, canals and roads appeared and, in the wake of all this progress, new social problems arose. The fight for the freedoms of the individual--freedom from want, political and religious freedom--drew new supporters and new enemies. The problem of Ireland occupied men's minds on this account, but was overshadowed by the threat of invasion from France, and continental wars. In these wars, Britain produced some remarkable leaders: Nelson and Wellington. The battles they fought are described in detail in this book. Most of the ordinary people of the 18th century, however, remained relatively unaffected by these momentous events. There is a great deal in the book about the things which concerned them: their domestic habits, their sports and amusements, clothes and occupations.