1 - The Fight for Sovereignty, 1775–1801

Summary

This chapter examines the American War for Independence and the quest for sovereignty during and after the war. It reveals the shifting of American aims from “redress of grievances” to independence, and the shifting nature of George Washington’s strategy of protraction, moving from his “War of Posts” to his Fabian strategy. It also examines Britain’s “divide and conquer” strategy and “Southern strategy,” the global war, and the Southern campaign. It then tackles the Confederation period, the creation of Constitutional government, the economic strategy of America’s first grand strategist, Alexander Hamilton, and the Washington administration, including its Indian wars. The debate over tariffs began here: were they to protect industry or raise revenue? It concludes with the Adams administration and the Quasi-War with France.