Eighteenth century diaries, letters and speeches are used in this six-part series, a history of the founding of the United States as an independent nation. "The Reluctant Revolutionaries" sets the stage, as in 1763 the Stamp Act creates turmoil i n thirteen British colonies in America. From 1774 through 1776 faltering steps toward independence and unity as a country are taken in "Blows Must Decide". Produced and directed by Ellen Hovde and Muffie Meyer; written by Ronald Blummer. Narrator Edward Herrmann. Stars Philip Bosco, J. D. Cullum, Peter Donaldson, Terrence Mann, Donna Murphy, Roger Rees, Campbell Scott. See also vhs, AT # 83836. Twin Cities Public Television, Inc. Closed captioned.