Covers the causes, course, and consequences of the war and the political, social, and military origins of the nation.

Coverage begins just prior to the American Revolution, including the Revolution, the framing of the American Constitution, the organization of a new national government, the development of the party system, the Louisiana Purchase, the second war with Britain, the acquisition of Florida and the Monroe Doctrine.

Details the people, places, and struggles that defined the region's prominent role in the path to American liberty from British authority.

Explores how war has been reported and interpreted by the media in the United States and what effects those reports and interpretations have had on the people at home and on the battlefield.