-
Costly war funded by Great Britain, leaving them in debt.
-
After the French and Indian War, the British government issues the Proclamation of 1763, prohibiting colonial settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains, leading to colonial resentment.
-
The British Parliament imposes the Stamp Act, a direct tax on various documents and printed materials, leading to widespread colonial protests and boycotts.
-
A confrontation between British soldiers and an angry mob in Boston results in the death of five colonists, further escalating tensions.
-
In protest of the Tea Act, American colonists, disguised as Mohawk Indians, board British ships and dump tea into Boston Harbor.
-
Delegates from twelve colonies meet in Philadelphia to discuss grievances with the British government and to coordinate a unified response.
-
Fighting erupts at Lexington and Concord, marking the beginning of the American Revolutionary War.
-
The Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, asserting the United States' independence from Britain.
-
American forces win a decisive battle at Saratoga, New York, which helps secure French support for the American cause.
-
The American Revolution officially ends with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, recognizing the United States' independence from Britain and establishing new boundaries.