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Treaty of Paris Ends Seven Years' War
France cedes its North American territories east of the Mississippi to Britain, setting the stage for colonial unrest due to new taxes imposed to cover war debts. -
Stamp Act Imposed
Britain enacts the Stamp Act, taxing legal documents and newspapers, leading to widespread colonial protest and the rallying cry of "No taxation without representation." -
British Troops Occupy Boston
To enforce tax laws, British troops are stationed in Boston, escalating tensions and leading to confrontations with local residents. -
Lord Dunmore's Proclamation
Virginia's royal governor offers freedom to enslaved people who join the British cause, influencing African American participation in the war. -
Committees of Correspondence Established
Colonial leaders form networks to coordinate responses to British policies, fostering unity and shared identity among the colonies. -
Intolerable Acts Enacted
In retaliation for the Boston Tea Party, Britain passes punitive laws, including closing Boston Harbor, which galvanize colonial opposition. -
Battles of Lexington and Concord
First shots of the Revolutionary War are fired as British troops confront colonial militias, igniting armed conflict. -
Battle of Bunker Hill
Colonial forces demonstrate resilience by inflicting heavy casualties on the British, despite ultimately losing the ground. -
Lord Dunmore's Proclamation
Virginia's royal governor offers freedom to enslaved people who join the British cause, influencing African American participation in the war. -
Battle of Moores Creek Bridge
Patriot forces defeat Loyalists in North Carolina, suppressing British support in the southern colonies. -
Battle of Sullivan's Island
South Carolinian defenders repel a British naval assault, securing Charleston from capture. -
Declaration of Independence Adopted
The Continental Congress formally declares the colonies' independence from Britain, articulating the principles of liberty and self-governance. -
Battles of Saratoga
American victories convince France to ally with the colonies, marking a turning point in the war. -
France Enters the War
France signs treaties of alliance and commerce with the United States, providing crucial military support. -
Siege of Yorktown Begins
American and French forces commence the siege of British General Cornwallis's army in Virginia. -
British Surrender at Yorktown
Cornwallis surrenders to Washington, effectively ending major combat operations in the war. -
Treaty of Paris Signed
The treaty formally ends the Revolutionary War, recognizing American independence and establishing borders.