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The Crossing of the Delaware River happened on December 25-26, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War. General George Washington led Continental Army troops across the icy river to surprise Hessian forces in Trenton, New Jersey. Key figures included Washington and his soldiers. The successful surprise attack boosted American morale, led to a crucial victory, and revived hope for the revolutionary cause during a difficult winter. -
On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere rode from Boston to Lexington to warn Samuel Adams and John Hancock that British troops were marching to arrest them and seize weapons. He was part of a network of riders, including William Dawes and Samuel Prescott. His warning helped the militias prepare for the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Though he was briefly captured, his ride became a symbol of American resistance and helped spark the Revolutionary War. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord occurred on April 19, 1775, between British troops and American colonists. British soldiers aimed to seize colonial weapons, but were met by militia. The first shots were fired at Lexington, followed by heavy fighting at Concord. It marked the start of the American Revolutionary War. Colonial forces forced the British to retreat to Boston, proving they were willing to fight for independence. -
The battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, was one of the first major clashes of the American Revolution. Colonial militia fortified Breed's Hill to block British control of Boston. British troops under General Howe attacked in waves, suffering heavy losses before the colonists retreated due to low ammunition. the British won the ground, but their high casualties showed the colonists could stand up to them. The battle gave Americans confidence and proved the war would be long and hard. -
The Declaration of Independence was created in 1776 by the Second Continental Congress, mainly led by Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin. It declared the American colonies' freedom from British rule, citing grievances against King George III. The outcome was the formal start of the United States as an independent nation, inspiring global movements for democracy and liberty. -
Thomas Paine wrote The American Crisis in 1776 to inspire American colonists during the Revolutionary War. It was aimed at boosting morale during tough times. The pamphlet began with the famous line, “These are the times that try men’s souls.” It urged soldiers and citizens to keep fighting for independence. George Washington read it to his troops, helping to inspire victory at Trenton. The writing united and motivated the American cause for freedom. -
In 1777, the British, led by General Howe, captured Philadelphia after victories at Brandywine and Germantown. The Continental Army, commanded by George Washington, tried to defend the city but was forced to retreat. Key figures included Washington, Howe, and later Baron von Steuben, who helped rebuild morale. The outcome was British occupation of Philadelphia through Winter, while Washington army endured Valley Forge, growing stranger for future battles. -
The Battles of Saratoga, fought in 1777, were a turning point in the American Revolutionary War. American forces, led by General Horatio Gates, defeated British troops under General John Burgoyne. The victory boosted American morale and convinced France to join the war as an ally to the United States. This support helped change the course of the war in favor of the Americans. -
During the Winter at Valley Forge (1777-1778), George Washington and about 12,000 continental soldiers endured severe shortages of food, clothing, and shelter. Nearly 2,000 men died from disease and hunger. Despite these hardships, training led by Baron von Steuben transformed the army into a disciplined and effective force. Marquis de Lafayette also gave support. the outcome was a stronger, unified Continental Army ready to continue the fight for independence. -
The Battle of Trenton took place on December 26, 1776, after Washington's daring crossing of the Delaware River. General George Washington led Continental Army forces in a surprise attack against Hessian mercenaries stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. Key figures included Washington and the Hessian commander, Colonel Rall. The Americans won decisively, capturing nearly 1,000 Hessians, boosting morale, and revitalizing the revolutionary cause during a tough winter. -
The Battle of Yorktown took place in 1781 and was the final major battle of the American Revolutionary War. American and French forces, led by George Washington and the French General Rochambeau, surrounded British troops under General Cornwallis. After a siege, Cornwallis surrendered. The victory ended major fighting and led to peace talks, eventually resulting in the Treaty of Paris and American independence. -
The Treaty of Paris (1783) ended the American Revolutionary War. It was signed by representatives of the United States and Great Britain. The U.S. gained independence and territory east of the Mississippi River. Britain recognized U.S. sovereignty, and both sides agreed to settle debts and release prisoners. The treaty marked the official end of British rule in the American colonies and established the U.S. as a new, independent nation.