Books in History's Greatest Defeats series

Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr came from differing backgrounds, but rose to great stature in the years following the American Revolution. As Secretary to the Treasury, Hamilton tackled the fragile finances of the new nation. Burr became the third US vice president in 1800. Readers may wonder how two such prominent men wound up in a duel that ultimately took Hamilton's life and ended Burr's political career. This is the engrossing account of the incidents that led to that fateful morning in 1804. Background information of the era, a timeline, quotes, and historical paintings enhance readers' understanding of the post-revolutionary country.

Although we rarely consider it today, it was remarkable that the small forces of the American colonies were the victors of the American Revolution. After all, England was the most powerful nation in the world at that time. This entertaining volume, an appealing way to present the important facts surrounding the Revolution, takes readers into the biographies of the Founding Fathers as well as George III and his advisors. The crucial events and decisions that ultimately led to England's loss are presented in an accessible narrative that will appeal to young historians and Revolutionary War buffs alike.

The Old Regime ruled France for centuries. Comprised of a monarchy, aristocracy, and high-ranking church officials, this tiny elite alone set the rules for Europe's most sophisticated nation. Corrupted by power and wealth, it also bestowed upon itself power, wealth, and privileges denied to the vast majority of France's 25 million people. But by the late 18th century, big trouble brewed for the Old Regime. Motivated by national bankruptcy, food shortages, widespread discontent, and an intellectual crusade known as the Enlightenment, the French people brought down the Old Regime. They also unleashed one of history's most violent revolutions--one that shook the world.

The legacies of Adolf Hitler and Winston Churchill stand in stark contrast. While Churchill is touted as the tenacious hero who refused to let Great Britain fall to the enemy, Hitler will forever be reviled for his oppressive dictatorship of Germany. Readers will learn what happened when these two leaders came head-to-head during World War II. Astonishing historic photographs underscore the biographical information included in the text as well as the effects of the war on Europe and the rest of the world. This valuable volume, which includes a timeline of the war's key moments, is an engaging examination of this era.