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What it was: British troops tried to steal weapons in Massachusetts but were met by colonial military. Why it’s important: These were the first battles of the American Revolution and started the war for independence. -
What it was: The Continental Army endured a harsh winter with little food or supplies. Why it’s important: It tested the army’s strength and unity and helped prepare them for future battles. -
What it was: American general Benedict Arnold secretly planned to help the British capture West Point. Why it’s important: His betrayal shocked Americans and became a symbol of treason. -
What it was: American forces defeated the British in a important battle in South Carolina. Why it’s important: It was a turning point in the Southern campaign of the Revolutionary War. -
What it was: The American warship Constitution defeated a British ship during the War of 1812. Why it’s important: a significant event for American morale, proving that the U.S. Navy could defeat a British warship -
What it was: British forces attacked Fort McHenry during the War of 1812 but failed to capture Baltimore. Why it’s important: The defense inspired The Star-Spangled Banner which later became the U.S. national anthem. -
What it was: U.S. troops under Andrew Jackson defeated the British after the War of 1812 had officially ended. Why it’s important: The victory boosted American pride and made Jackson a national hero. -
What it was: Andrew Jackson was elected as the 7th president of the United States. Why it’s important: His presidency marked the rise of the "common man" and increased political participation. -
What it was: A small group of Texans defended a mission against a large Mexican army for 13 days. Why it’s important: Even though they were defeated, the battle inspired Texans to fight harder for independence. -
What it was: After losing the Mexican-American War, Mexico gave the U.S. a large part of its northern land. Why it’s important: This expanded U.S. territory and increased debates about slavery in new states. -
What it was: South Carolina was the first state to leave the Union after Lincoln’s election. Why it’s important: This action started the events that led to the Civil War. -
What it was: Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th President of the United States. Why it’s important: His election led to Southern states seceding and helped trigger the Civil War. -
What it was: The first major battle of the Civil War, fought near Washington, D.C. Why it’s important: It showed that the war would be long and difficult instead of a quick Union victory. -
What it was: A three day battle in Pennsylvania between the Union and Confederate forces. Why it’s important: It was a huge turning point in the Civil War and ended the South’s attempt to invade the North. -
What it was: Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Union General Ulysses S. Grant. Why it’s important: This marked the end of the Civil War and began the process of reunifying the country. -
What it was: The U.S. battleship Maine exploded in Havana Harbor which killed over 260 people. Why it’s important: It helped start the Spanish–American War by increasing public anger toward Spain. -
What it was: The U.S. Navy defeated the Spanish fleet at Manila Bay. Why it’s important: It gave the U.S. control of the Philippines and showed America’s growing power.
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What it was: Congress made The Star-Spangled Banner the official national anthem of the United States. Why it’s important: It formalized a patriotic song that celebrates American pride.