Breaking Free: American Revolution
The American Revolution studies the causes, major events, key figures, and consequences of the American colonies’ fight for independence from Britain, spanning the 1760s to 1783. It examines the growing unrest over British taxation, pivotal battles for freedom, influential leaders like George Washington, and the establishment of a new nation, shaping the foundation of the United States.
Timeline of American Revolution
This section outlines the key phases and developments of the revolution. Here’s the breakdown:
- Causes of the Revolution (1760s-1770s): Events and policies that sparked colonial unrest.
- Major Battles and Events (1775-1781): Critical conflicts and milestones during the war.
- Key Documents and Agreements: Writings and treaties that defined the revolution’s goals and outcomes.
- Consequences of Independence (1781-1783): The immediate and lasting effects of the revolution.
Key Figures and Events
This section highlights the main individuals and pivotal moments that shaped the American Revolution:
- George Washington (1775-1783): Commander of the Continental Army, led the fight for independence.
- Boston Massacre (1770): British soldiers killed five colonists, fueling anti-British sentiment.
- Thomas Jefferson (1776): Authored the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming colonial rights.
- Battle of Lexington and Concord (1775): The first battles of the war, known as “the shot heard ‘round the world.”
- Battle of Yorktown (1781): The decisive victory that led to British surrender.
- Treaty of Paris (1783): Officially ended the war, recognizing U.S. independence.
Examples of American Revolution
Causes of the Revolution (1760s-1770s) Examples
- The Stamp Act of 1765 imposed taxes on paper goods, leading to colonial protests.
- The Boston Tea Party in 1773 saw colonists dump tea into the harbor to protest British taxes.
- The Intolerable Acts of 1774 punished Massachusetts, uniting colonies against Britain.
Major Battles and Events (1775-1781) Examples
- The Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775 showed colonists could stand up to British forces.
- The winter at Valley Forge (1777-1778) tested the Continental Army’s resilience under harsh conditions.
- The Battle of Saratoga in 1777 was a turning point, convincing France to ally with the colonies.
Key Documents and Agreements Examples
- The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, declared the colonies free.
- The Articles of Confederation in 1777 established the first U.S. government framework.
- The Treaty of Paris in 1783 granted the U.S. land east of the Mississippi River.
Consequences of Independence (1781-1783) Examples
- The U.S. established a new government, leading to the Constitution in 1787.
- Britain lost control of the 13 colonies, shifting global power dynamics.
- Revolutionary ideals inspired other independence movements, like in France.