This game is actually the first ever game I ever bought. I love it.
The independance thing, where you get independance without fighting the King... Did someone actually tryied playing the game even after the time limit? I think you are prompted with two choices at the end (End or Continue playing for fun). Perhaps if you did not manage to win the revolution and played until the game end (I know there is a time limit even if you continue playing), you will get your independance that way?
It would sure be too boring for me to even consider trying tough...