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Lord Dunmore, the British governor of Virginia, declares that any slaves who can enter British lines will be granted freedom, leading to tens of thousands of African Americans seeking freedom by supporting the British during the Revolutionary War, while some also fought on the patriot side despite discouraging policies.
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The Treaty of Paris ends the 7 years French & Indian War. -
British troops go to Boston and enforce the Townshend duties -
Britain passes the Stamp Act imposing a tax on legal documents, newspapers and cards. -
The British Parliament passes the Coercive Acts (Intolerable Acts).
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Washington's army made a bold move into New Jersey on Christmas night and successfully surprised and defeated German troops fighting for Britain at Trenton on December 26. They achieved another victory over British troops at Princeton on January 3, leading to renewed hopes that the war could be won. The army then spent the winter at Morristown, New Jersey.
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The Revolutionary War begins with shots fired at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts. The news spreads quickly, and volunteers, known as "Minute Men," gather in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which marks the beginnings of the Continental Army.
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The colonial soldiers held off the British in the first major battle of the Revolutionary War at Breed's Hill, although they were eventually forced to abandon their position. The battle demonstrated the patriots' willingness to fight despite facing a larger, better-equipped force, with over 1,000 British casualties out of 2,200 soldiers. -
The Battle of Moores Creek Bridge resulted in the defeat of loyalists by patriot forces of Scots descent, which led to a temporary decrease in loyalist activity in the Carolinas for three years.
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British forces fail to land their troops on Sullivan’s Island during an all-day attack against Patriot forces. The British navy is frustrated by the tricky waters of Charleston Harbor, leading to their defeat. South Carolina remains untouched by the enemy for another three years. -
The Second Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, signifying the colonies' break from Britain after years of conflict. Despite loyalist sentiment and opposition from King George III, the colonies pursue independence. The focus remains on individual states rather than national unity.
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American Fort Schuyler (Stanwix) repels a three-week-long siege by British forces under Barry St. Leger. The retreat forces the allied British to abandon their goal of securing the Mohawk Valley for General Burgoyne. The Continental Congress commends American Colonel Peter Gansevoort and the fort's garrison for their efforts.
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With the British occupying Philadelphia just 20 miles away, the Continental Army enters winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. During the winter, supply arrangements will be improved and the Continental troops will be drilled and emerge as a more disciplined, unified fighting force.