the American revolution

  • paul reveres ride

    What Happened: Paul Revere rode at night to warn that British soldiers were coming. Significance: Helped the colonists prepare for the first battles of the Revolution.
  • battle of Lexington and concord

    What Happened: The first battles of the war between colonial militias and British troops. Significance: Marked the official start of the American Revolution
  • battle of bunker hill

    What Happened: Colonists fought British soldiers on a hill near Boston. The British won but had heavy losses. Significance: Showed that the colonists could stand up to the British army.
  • creation of the declaration of independence

    What Happened: The colonies declared independence from Britain. Significance: Stated the reasons for freedom and united the colonies.
  • crossing of the Delaware river

    What Happened: George Washington led troops across the Delaware River to surprise and defeat Hessian soldiers in Trenton. Significance: Gave the colonists a much-needed victory and hope
  • battle of trenton

    What Happened: Washington’s army defeated Hessian troops in New Jersey. Significance: Boosted American morale after many early defeats.
  • Thomas Paine’s “The American Crisis”

    What Happened: A pamphlet encouraging colonists to keep fighting for independence. Significance: Inspired soldiers and citizens during tough times.
  • The Winter at Valley Forge

    Date: Winter 1777–1778 What Happened: Washington’s army suffered through a hard winter but trained and grew stronger. Significance: Improved the army’s discipline and readiness.
  • Battles of Saratoga

    What Happened: British troops captured Philadelphia, the American capital. Significance: Forced the Continental Congress to flee but strengthened colonial resolve.
  • Battle of Yorktown

    What Happened: American and French forces surrounded and defeated the British army. Significance: Final major battle — led to British surrender.
  • Treaty of Paris

    What Happened: Officially ended the American Revolution. Significance: Recognized the United States as an independent nation.