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The Boston Tea Party
American colonists disguised as Mohawk Native Americans raid three British tea ships, dumping loads of tea into the Boston Harbor to protest the British tax on tea. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
The Battles of Lexington and Concord were the two battles that started the American Revolutionary War. The British were trying to cease an arms cache of arms used by American Colonists, but were met with resistance in Concord and Lexington. During a stand off, a shot was fired that would affect world history. -
The Declaration of Independence is Signed
56 delegates of the 13 United States colonies signed the Declaration of Independence, announcing their support for leaving Britain and becoming an independent country. -
The Winter at Valley Forge
After Washington and the Continental Army failed to retake Philadelphia in 1777, Washington retreated to Valley Forge for the winter. The Continental Army spent 6 months there, and in that time Washington united an army that was capable of defeating the British. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
The United States Continental Congress adopts the Article of Confederation, making it the first constitution on the United States. After the United States had become an independent country, they needed a set of rules to live by. -
The Battle of Yorktown
The last major battle in the American Revolutionary War. George Washington, backed by the French Army, surrounded and defeated General Lord Cornwallis and the British army, effectively ending the Revolutionary War. This major success also cemented Washington as an influential leader, which helped him win the first presidential election. -
The Constitution is Ratified
The Constitution was officially announced the framework of the United States once New Hampshire became the ninth state to ratify it. This was monumental because it was replacing the Articles of Confederation, which had many flaws. This new system established the United State's government system, established laws, and gave everyone basic human rights. -
Presidential Inauguration of George Washington
Held nearly two whole months after he was sworn into office, Washington was inaugurated as the first president of the United States. The Inauguration was held on the balcony of the Federal Hall in New York City. -
Washington's Farewell Address
After nearly 20 years of service to the United States, Washington wrote a farewell letter near the end of his second term of presidency. He announced his retirement from president and his plans to reside in his Mount Vernon Estate. The letter addressed the nation on what to do next, and gave advice for the future. -
The Death of George Washington
On December 12, after supervising farm activities in the rain and snow, George Washington attained Epiglottitis and fell ill. Washington wrote his own will and asked his secretary to make sure he had a decent burial. His last words were, "Tis well." -
Election Day, 1800
A hard-fought battle between John Adams. Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson won decisively over Adams, making this the first time that power had been handed over peacefully from one political idea to another. -
Marbury vs. Madison
A landmark Supreme Court case that established the idea of judicial review in the United States. This allowed the Supreme Court to strike down some laws and government actions that they deem as violating the Constitution.
