Young George Washington abandons his comfortable life at his family home in Mount Vernon to join the militia and fight alongside British regulars in the French and Indian war. The episode concludes with the first rumblings of revolution from the Americans and a demand that King George back off on his demands for new taxes.

From disastrous initial battles with the British, through General Benedict Arnold's betrayal, America emerges victorious. General Washington bids farewell to his troops at Fraunces Tavern in New York City before returning home to Mount Vernon and closing the door on this chapter of his life.

American forces begin skirmishing with British regulars while leaders try to preserve the alliance between Great Britain and their American colonies. Efforts break down, and a Continental Army is raised with Lieutenant Washington being commissioned as General Washington to lead it. The episode concludes with General Washington's daring effort to attack the British by crossing the Delaware River on Christmas Eve.