-
Loyalists in America, fearing confiscation and reprisals, begin to leave for Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
-
The House of Commons votes against waging further war in America; the English Crown is empowered to seek peace negotiations. In March, Lord North resigns as prime minister and is replaced by Lord Rockingham, who seeks immediate negotiations with America.
-
The Netherlands recognizes the independence of the United States.
-
A skirmish in South Carolina is the last wartime engagement on the eastern seaboard.
-
A preliminary peace treaty is signed in Paris.
