In contrast to earlier interpretations, the author sees the War of American Independence - especially in its American aspect - as the first modern war. This theme runs throughout an account that investigates the background to the war, the ability of each of the belligerents to top their resources for military purposes, the prosecution conflict itself, both in America and elsewhere, the war at home, in Britain and America, and wartime diplomacy. Assessment is made of the effects of the war on the belligerants - ranging from changes in military tactics and organization to administrative reform (in Britain), financial collapse (in France), and the transmission of revolutionary ideas (particularly from America to France).