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Revolutionary War begins
the 13 Colonies revolt against the British. -
Declaration of Independence written and approved by the Continental Congress
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Redcoats defeat the George Washington's army in the Battle of Long Island. Washington's army escapes at night.
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the British occupy NYC
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Washington Crosses the Delaware and captures Trenton
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Virginia becomes the first state to ratify the Articles on Confederation.
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Continental Congress is replaced by the Congress of the Confederation, which forms the basis of the new US government
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The Continental Congress agrees on the Articles of Confederation
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Revolutionary War ends
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The United States and Great Britain sign the Treaty of Paris
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The Constitutional Convention begins in Philadelphia.
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Period: to
US Constitution written at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, PA
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US Constitution ratified by 9 states
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The first Congress met (in New York, NY, then the nation's capital)
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George Washington elected first President of the USA
Took the oath of office -
The Bill of Rights is approved by Congress.
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The Bill of Rights (first 10 amendments were radified) added to the Constitution
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US capital moves to Washington, District of Columbia
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Abraham Lincoln elected President
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Civil War begins (Fort Sumter)
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Civil War ends (Lee surrenders to Grant)
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Abraham Lincoln assassinated
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The 13th Amendment, abolishing slavery, is ratified.
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The 14th Amendment is adopted.
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The 15th Amendment is adopted.
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The 18th Amendment bans the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol in the U.S.
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The 21st Amendment repeals the 18th Amendment.
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The Constitution arrives at Fort Knox, Kentucky.
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The 27th Amendment, addressing Congressional pay raises, is ratified.