Declaring Independence illuminates the lives of American colonists in the late 1700s, the period during which they fought to be free of British rule. The struggle for independence affected citizens in coastal cities and towns as well as pioneers of the American back country. African American slaves heard the cry for freedom, and many escaped their owners and fled to the British, who promised the slaves their freedom. Native Americans too were drawn into the struggle. Readers will hear all these voices, whether patriot, loyalist, or indifferent to the cause. Fighting on the battlefield and holding down the home front, Americans of all walks of life endured hardship and sacrifice during this difficult time. Yet from the courage and determination of the American people emerged a new nation, united in the belief of government by the people. Book jacket.