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SmallPox Epidemic
Smallpox became a threat just as serious as the British military in terms of causes of death of the American soldieres. Because they were not used to the disease like the British, many people died until surgeons began to inoculate the soldiers. http://www.let.rug.nl/usa/documents/1776-1785/albigence-waldo-from-the-diary-of-a-surgeon-at-valley-forge-1777.php -
Paul Revere's Ride
When the two lanterns were lit in the Old North Church to indicate the British were coming along the Charles River, Paul Revere began his ride to warn the colonists -
Period: to
American Revolution
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Battle of Concord
After the British won Lexington, the went to Concord to search private homes for guns and militia. They began to set fire to the homes of the colonists. Major Buttrick ordered the colonists to fire at the British, which introduced Gorilla Warfare. This type of fighting was unheared of in Europe and was one of the only advancements the colonists had on the British. With their knowledge of the geography and land, they were able to ambush the British while moving from town to town. -
Battle of Lexington
The colonists and British were ready to fight but ordered not to shoot. An unknown shot was fired and the battle ended in a retreat from the colonists after being vastly outnumbered. The British then went to Concord to seize ammunition and capture any rebels which led to the Battle of Concord. -
General Washington
George Washington accepts the offer to lead the Continental army. With ill-equipped soldiers and lack of supplies, Washington was able to lead America in the defeat of the Brtitish -
Battle at Bunker Hill
Fought during the Siege of Boston, the colonists had learned of the British plan to occupy Dorchester Heights. Though the British technically won the Battle and took control over the hills, they lost so many soldiers and suffered so many injuries that it was clear this war was going to be long and brutal. The colonists actually had a chance to win, with their confidence from Concord and knowledge of the geography, and gorilla warefare tactics. -
Battle of Quebec
The Americans were desperate for the Canadians to be on their side. They fought in Quebec under harsh circumstances but were defeated by the mix of British and Canadian soldiers and volunteers on the opposing side. This was America’s last attempt at gaining Canadian support. -
Declaration of Independence
Continental Congress releases the Declaration of Independence written by Benjamin Franklin -
Battle of Fort Washington
The Americans attempted to sink their own ships in the Battle of Washington an effort to block the British Navy from reaching them, but their plan leaked out and nearly 3,000 Americans were captured. There was great loss of supplies and hope for the Americans. -
Battle of Trenton
After the devastating loss of Washington, Americans had lost hope of holding onto New York. General Washington led the colonists to New Jersey in horrible conditions to surprise the German Hessian army. All the Germans were defeated and this was a confidence booster much needed for the colonists in order to continue in the war. -
Saratoga-Freeman's Farm
The first major battle in the series of battles in Saratoga, New York. Americans used sharp shooting and were beginning to win the battle when the Hessian forces joined and ultimately led to the American’s defeat. -
Saratoga-Bemis Heights
The Americans blocked the Bemis Heights line, and when the British attempted to pass, the Americans defeated them. This ultimately led to the surrender at Saratoga under General Burgoyne of 6222 men. -
Valley Forge
Von Steuben Journal
Von Steuben arrives at Valley Forge from Prussia. Implements hygiene and organization in the American’s camps that were much needed. Wrote a guide for military training and turned around the health and training of the soldiers in a harsh environment. -
Battle of Yorktown
General Washington ordered his troops and french allies to surround Cornwallis in Chesapeake Bay by both land and sea. After three weeks of fighting, the British surrendered and the Americans were free.
