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Thomas Paine's "Common Sense"
In January of 1776, Thomas Paine anonymously published a pamphlet by the title of "Common Sense". Paine argues about American Independence from Great Britain. Within three months, the pamphlet was made into over 100,000 copies. It quickly spread across the colonies and even Britain. It also convinced colonists like John Adams and George Washington to take action in seeking independence from Britain. -
Declaration of Independence adopted.
The Declaration of Independence was written by John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and many others. It includes ideas that all men are created equal with unalienable rights. It states that goverments are created by men, and that it should protect men's rights. If any form of government fails to do so, it is the right of the people to diminish this government and build a new one. This new government will protect the certain unalienable rights that include: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. -
Declaration of Independence signed.
56 delegates in total signed the Declaration of Independence on August 2nd, 1776. A month before signing the document, Congress accepted an input from Richard Henry Lee that included: "Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved." -
Battle of Trenton.
On the night of December 26th, Washington leads his troops across the Delaware River for a sneak attack on the Hessians.The Hessians were tired from celebrating Christmas the previous night, and were oblivious to an attack from the Patriots. The Hessians also wasn't afraid of the Patriots and didn't take them seriously because they were 'a bunch of farmers with guns'. The Hessians completely underestimated the Hessians. Though a mino victory, it was a huge morale boost for the troops. -
Battle of Princeton
After a successful battle with the Hessians at Trenton, Washington and his troops were hoping for another success. In early January of 1777, British general Cornwallis thought he had had the Americans cornered and wanted to wait until the next day to "bag the fox". During the night ad onto the early morning hours of January 3rd, Washington ordered some of his men to start a fire and make digging noises as if they were still at their camp to trick the British. This battle was another win. -
Battle of Brandywine
By mid-afternoon on September 11, 1777 the British had crossed the river north of Washington's troops. Shortly after, Washington realized the British outnumbered his troops. He ordered his men to head to Birmingham Friends Meeting House as a last defense.
After the arrival of the British troops, the Americans unsuccessfully attempt to defend their position. Finally, at nightfall the battle was brought to an end. Gen. Howe allows the Patriots to retreat. -
Battle of Saratoga
The Battle of Saratoga was the turning point of the Revolutionary War. During the first battle on September 19th, British Gen. John Burgoyne achieved a small victory over American troops. He again attacked the Patriots at Bemis Heights on October 7th, but Burgoyne and his troops were defeated and forced to retreat. He surrendered ten days after this. This victory led the French to formally side with the Patriots as an ally, providing supplies greatly needed for the troops in the war.
