Crucible of War reveals the Seven Years' War as far more than a backdrop to the American Revolution. Beginning with a fateful skirmish in the Pennsylvania backcountry involving young George Washington, Iroquois chief Tanaghrisson, and French emissary Jumonville, historian Anderson traces a chain of events that ignited global conflict.

Through vivid portraits of Washington, William Pitt, Montcalm, and others, this compelling narrative weaves together military strategy, economic forces, and political ambitions to show how the war created Britain's empire while simultaneously sowing the seeds of its dissolution. A fresh and essential perspective on how the forces unleashed during these years irrevocably transformed the politics of empire in North America and shaped the nation's future.