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Paul Revere and William Dawes are sent from Boston to warn colonists that the British are coming to destroy their weapons depot. Revere reaches Lexington about midnight and warns Sam Adams and John Hancock who are hiding out there. (The History Place)
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American forces led by Ethan Allen and Benedict Arnold capture Fort Ticonderoga in New York. (The History Place)
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The Second Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia, with John Hancock elected as its president. On May 15, the Congress places the colonies in a state of defense. On June 15, the Congress unanimously votes to appoint George Washington general and commander-in-chief of the new Continental Army. (The History Place)
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The first major fight between British and American troops occurs at Boston in the Battle of Bunker Hill. The British succeed in taking the hill, but at a loss of half their force, over a thousand casualties, with the Americans losing about 400, including important colonial leader, General Joseph Warren. (The History Place)
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The Continental Congress issues a Declaration on the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms detailing the colonists' reasons for fighting the British and states the Americans are "resolved to die free men rather than live as slaves." (The History Place)
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Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" is published in Philadelphia. The 50 page pamphlet is highly critical of King George III and attacks allegiance to Monarchy in principle while providing strong arguments for American independence. It becomes an instant best-seller in America. "We have it in our power to begin the world anew...American shall make a stand, not for herself alone, but for the world," Paine states. (The History Place)
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The American revolutionaries get the much needed foreign support they had been hoping for. King Louis XVI of France commits one million dollars in arms and munitions. Spain then also promises support. (The History Place)
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The Continental Congress authorizes each of the 13 colonies to form local (provincial) governments. (The History Place)
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On Christmas, George Washington takes 2400 of his men and recrosses the Delaware River. Washington then conducts a surprise raid on 1500 British-Hessians (German mercenaries) at Trenton, New Jersey. The Hessians surrender after an hour with nearly 1000 taken prisoner by Washington who suffers only six wounded (including future president Lt. James Monroe). Washington reoccupies Trenton. The victory provides a much needed boost to the morale of all American Patriots. (The History Place)
