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A group of British soldiers opens fire on a group of protesters in Boston. This event was a turning point, and helped solidify the movement for Independence and unite the colonies in that effort.
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As a political and economic protest, colonists threw boxes of tea into the Boston Harbor. Settlers were unhappy that they were taxed with no governmental representation.
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Paul Revere rode at midnight on the evening of April 18, 1775 to alert settlers and the militia of the impending attack by the British Army.
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The Declaration of independence is adopted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia. This established the Colonies' fight for Independence from the British Empire.
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On this date, The Articles of Confederation was ratified. This was an agreement among the original thirteen colonies, and served as the first Constitution.
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The British surrender at Yorktown.
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The U.S. Constitution is officially ratified by the United States, and becomes the foundation for its government.
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George Washington is sworn in as the first President of the United States.
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The first 10 amendments to the Constitution are ratified. This established the inalienable civil liberties that are guaranteed to citizens of the Union.
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On this day, Eli Whitney was granted the patent for the Cotton Gin. The Cotton Gin was a more efficient method of separating cotton fibers from its seeds. It enabled significantly higher production.
