It was 1775. George III, ruler of Great Britain, viewed the thirteen American colonies as "his." Heavy taxes, paid by the colonials, filled the King's treasury. Life was good - for some people. For others, like Thomas Paine,

These are the times
that try men's souls

The American Crisis

What was trying "men's souls" was British rule. The time had come for America to be free.

But cutting the ties that bound thirteen colonies to England would not happen without a revolt. No one ever gives up a treasure without a fight - especially not a king.