the American Revolution History Timeline and Biographies

1775

The Battles of Lexington and Concord

The American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, with the Battles of Lexington and Concord. These skirmishes marked the first military engagements between British troops and colonial militias, igniting widespread rebellion across the colonies against British rule.

1775

The Second Continental Congress Convened

In May 1775, the Second Continental Congress convened in Philadelphia. This assembly acted as the de facto national government, coordinating the colonial war effort and eventually adopting the Declaration of Independence in 1776, formalizing the colonies' break from Britain during the American Revolution.

1776

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson. This document proclaimed the colonies' independence from British rule and articulated the principles of liberty and equality that would define the American Revolution and the new nation.

1776

On December 26, 1776, George Washington led a surprise attack against Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey. This victory boosted American morale and reinvigorated the revolutionary cause during the harsh winter of the American Revolution.

1777

The turning point of the American Revolution occurred in 1777 at the Battle of Saratoga. American forces, led by General Horatio Gates, defeated British General John Burgoyne, convincing France to enter the war as an ally of the colonies, significantly bolstering the American cause.

1778

In 1778, the Treaty of Alliance was signed between France and the American colonies, marking a significant turning point in the American Revolution. French military and financial support became crucial for the success of the American forces against the British.

1781

The Siege of Yorktown, from September to October 1781, was the last major battle of the American Revolution. American and French forces, led by General Washington, forced the surrender of British General Cornwallis, effectively ending major combat operations.

1783

The Treaty of Paris was signed on September 3, 1783, officially ending the American Revolution. This treaty recognized the sovereignty of the United States and set its borders, marking a significant achievement in the fight for independence from British rule.

1787

In 1787, the Constitutional Convention was held in Philadelphia to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation established after the American Revolution. The result was the United States Constitution, which created a stronger federal government and established the framework for American democracy.

1789

The United States Constitution was ratified in 1789, establishing the legal foundation for the new nation. This marked the transition from revolutionary ideals to the practical governance of the United States, embodying the principles fought for during the American Revolution.

1791

In 1791, the Bill of Rights was ratified, consisting of the first ten amendments to the Constitution. This was a direct response to the concerns of Anti-Federalists about the potential for government overreach, reflecting the revolutionary ideals of individual liberties championed during the American Revolution.

1793

The American Revolution had a profound influence on France, inspiring the French Revolution in 1789. The ideals of liberty and equality espoused during the American Revolution resonated with the French populace, leading to significant political upheaval in Europe.

1800

By 1800, the legacy of the American Revolution was firmly established, influencing democratic movements globally. The principles of self-governance and individual rights became a model for other nations seeking independence and reform, solidifying the American Revolution's impact on world history.

2024

As of 2024, the American Revolution continues to be a subject of study and inspiration. Its principles are invoked in contemporary discussions about democracy, civil rights, and governance, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality that began over two centuries ago.