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Thomas Paine Common Sense
Common sense was written in 1776 by Thomas Paine. The document was written to advocate independence among the colonists. It transformed colonial issues, and was one of the most popular pamphlets of its time. It brought new hope that one day they would be independent. -
Retreat from New York
The fighting shifted from New England to the Southern colonies. During the battle at Long Island, George Washington was no match for the British army witch caused the American army to lose multiple battles and soon be driven out of Brooklyn. Nathan Hale was an American spy. He served many years before he was captured and sentenced to death. His last words were " I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." After losing many battles Washington's army had little hope. -
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence was written by Thomas Jefferson to state Americas independence. A preamble is the begging to an important document. The first section of the document states that all men have three god given rights, life, liberty, and property. The second section states the grievances sent to the king. A grievance is a formal complaint sent to a person in authority, but the king didn't even consider them and ignored them. The third section states America is a free country. -
Crossing The Delaware River
The Americans attacked Trenton under the command of George Washington. To do so they had to cross the Delaware River in the darkness of night. Britain hired Russian mercenaries called Hessians to guard the town. The outcome of the battle was in favor of the Americans and lifted their spirits. -
Battle of Saratoga
The British goal was to cut the New England colonies off from the East. They wanted to move from Canada to the south. Also from the west a smaller force would go through the Mohawk Valley. From the south General Howe would lead an army up the Hudson. The plan failed because the Americans cut British off from the west. It ended British threat to America and showed the Americans might have a chance to win. -
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Valley Forge Winter
The Americans spent the winter in Valley Forge, PA while the British camped in Philadelphia. Most of the Army soldiers had no socks and/or shoes, food was limited and one out of four solders were sick. The American army servived and were trained better when after leaving Valley Forge. -
Help From Overseas
The French waited until after an American victory to see if America was strong. France was the first country to sign a treaty with the America. Baron Friedrich von Steuben trained soldiers for George Wachington in close-order drill, instilling new confidence and discipline in the demoralized Continental Army. -
Defending the Frontier
The Americans sent George Rodgers Clark to defend the frontier. They were successful by capturing serveral Mississippi river outposts. This capture strengthened their claim on the Ohio River valley. -
British Advance South
General Cornwallis captured savannah and Charlestown using guerrillia tactics. Guerilla tactics are hit and run. Frances Marion was a general that used guerilla tactics and was soo good he was later named "The Swamp Fox". Southern loyalist's were trying to recruit backcountty settlers. -
Spain Joins the War
During the revolutionary war Spain ruled most of the land west of the Mississippi river. Spanish agreed to help America if Spain got Florida back. The Spanish helped by providing money and ammunition. Spain eventually became Americas second offical ally.
