In a practical narrative style, Mrs. Ellet relates all of the major events of the American Revolution, begining with the difficulties with Great Britain, the commencement of the war, and the general state of society. She gives much attention to the �female influence,� making use of all opportunities to tell anecdotes of brave acts by women. Other topics include the evacuation of Boston, the occupation of New York, European sentiment, the march of Burgoyne, the battle of Saratoga and Valley Forge, the British prison ships, whaleboat warfare, the French alliance, the battle of Monmouth, Indian depredatons, attacks on the South, the treason of Arnold, the battles of Cowpens, Yorktown, and early settlements in the West (Kentucky and Tennessee). Special focus is given to South Carolina, including the surrender of Charleston.