The American Revolution

This is a quick overview of how the thirteen original colonies came to have grievances against Great Britain, a very quick review of the war itself, and a look at the founding of the new nation and its 1787 Constitution. A lot of ground is covered in 30 minutes, so the producers can perhaps be forgiven for a couple factual errors. The English settlement of North America is portrayed as being started by the Pilgrims, although the English colony at Jamestown was well-established by the time the Mayflower landed, and the French and Indian War is referred to as a series of wars, but actually those wars are properly termed "The Wars for Empire," of which the French and Indian War was the last. However, this is still a lively, professionally-done introduction to the Revolution, and the historical impact of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution on world history. Perhaps this is the true strong point of the tape: letting children see that these documents written over 200 years ago have not only changed our own history, but those of emerging nations as well. The teacher's guide is very well-done, with suggested activity sheets, independent study suggestions, and a wonderful project concerning Abigail Adams' plea to her husband that the Declaration committee "remember the ladies." Highly recommended. Aud: I, J, H, P. (R. Reagan)