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Declaration of Independence
The colonies declared independence from Britain on July 4th, 1776. Thomas Jefferson wrote most of this document. -
Battle of Saratoga
American troops won an important victory at Saratoga. It helped convince France to join the war and help the Americans. -
Articles of Confederation Approved
Congress approved the Articles of Confederation on November 15th, 1777. It was fully ratified on March 1st, 1781 and made a weak national government. -
Winter at Valley Forge
Washington's army stayed at Valley Forge during the winter. It was very cold and hard, and many soldiers died from hunger and illness. They stayed from December 19th, 1777-June 19th, 1778 -
France Allies with U.S.
France signed a treaty with the U.S. on February 6th, 1778. This brought French soldiers and ships to help fight Britain. -
Battle of Yorktown
The British army surrendered at Yorktown, VA. This ended most of the fighting in the Revolutionary War. -
Treaty of Paris Signed
The war officially ended with the Treaty of Paris. Britain recognized the United States as a free country. -
Shays' Rebellion Begins
Angry farmers in Massachusetts started a rebellion. They were upset about high taxes and losing their land. -
Constitutional Convention Begins
Leaders met in Philadelphia to fix the government. They decided to write a new Constitution instead. -
Northwest Ordinance
This law helped organize land north of the Ohio River. It said new states could join the U.S. and banned slavery in that area. -
U.S. Constitution Signed
The new Constitution was signed by the delegates on this day. It created a stronger national government with three branches. -
Bill of Rights Ratified
The first ten amendments were added to the Constitution on this date. The protect important freedoms like speech, religion, and fair trial.