Middle Stages Timeline of the American Revolution

By Hbridge
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    Battles of Lexington and Concord

    British troops tried to take over the colonists' military stores in Concord. The colonists found out and gathered the militiamen in Lexington to prevent the British from carrying out their plan. The British outnumbered the Patriots. The British won and proceeded toward Concord to the North Bridge to capture the militiamen. This time, the British were defeated and forced to withdraw to Boston.
  • Meeting of the Second Continental Congress

    Adopted the Declaration of Independence proclaiming the 13 colonies as independent.
  • Battle of Bunker Hill

    The British were planning to send troops from Boston to take over the hills surrounding the city. Even with the loss, this battle gave the Patriots a confidence boost.
  • Failed Seizure of Quebec under Benedict Arnold

    Patriot forces under Benedict Arnold attempted to capture Quebec, which was under British control. Because the Patriots didn't have sufficient resources to fight, the attack failed and they retreated.
  • Common Sense Published

    This was written by Thomas Paine. He wanted to push the American people toward independence from Britain. It helped get the American Revolution started.
  • Adoption of the Declaration of Independence

    It was adopted by the Second Continental Congress and the first formal statement by America proclaiming their right to choose their own government.
  • Battle of Trenton

    This was a critical battle during the American Revolutionary War. George Washington led the Continental Army against the Hessian troops stationed at Trenton.
  • Battle of Saratoga

    It marked the turning point of the American Revolution, when France openly supported the Americans against Britain.
  • Paoli Massacre (Battle of Paoli)

    British soldiers launched a surprise attack under the cover of darkness on the Patriot troops. This massacre became a rallying cry for the Americans for the rest of the war.
  • Washington's Encampment at Valley Forge

    This winter encampment of the Continental Army led by George Washington was where the men suffered from the cold, hunger, disease and fatigue. It was where the colonists learnt military training.