Early settlers of the lands destined to become the state of Tennessee proved themselves to be independent thinkers whose actions previewed the coming break with Britain. As early as 1772 the residents worried the British by forming the Watauga Association—a move that an official of the crown called “a dangerous example to the people of America.” This fascinating booklet details the background, proceedings in Congress, and the manifest partisanship behind the disparity in treatment experienced by the 16th state.