this volume includes an essay titled "Our National Anniversary" by Benson J. Lossing, which delves into the historical events leading to the American Declaration of Independence. It recounts the transition of power from King George II to George III and the influence of key political figures, such as William Pitt and John Stuart, Earl of Bute. The narrative highlights growing tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain, culminating in the colonies' aspirations for independence and emerging sentiments of rebellion, fueled by the injustices faced under British rule. This introduction sets the stage for a detailed examination of the revolutionary fervor that swept across the American colonies, leading to their eventual quest for self-governance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)