The American Revolution, also known as the American War of Independence, was a pivotal conflict that spanned from 1765 to 1783. This period was marked by political, social, and military upheaval as thirteen of Britain's North American colonies rejected British rule, aiming to establish an independent nation.
Background and Causes
- Colonial Discontent: The colonies had been growing increasingly frustrated with British policies, particularly after the French and Indian War (1754-1763), which left Britain with a large war debt. To manage this, Britain imposed new taxes and stricter control over the colonies.
- Taxation Without Representation: Acts like the Stamp Act of 1765, the Townshend Acts, and the Tea Act of 1773 were seen as unjust because the colonists had no representation in the British Parliament.
- Philosophical Influence: Enlightenment ideas, particularly those of John Locke, about natural rights and government by consent of the governed, significantly influenced the colonial leaders.
Key Events
- Boston Tea Party (1773): Colonists, disguised as Native Americans, dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor to protest the Tea Act.
- First Continental Congress (1774): Representatives from the colonies met to coordinate a response to British policies, leading to the creation of the Continental Association to boycott British goods.
- Lexington and Concord (1775): The first military actions of the conflict, known as the Shot Heard Round the World, where colonial militiamen engaged British troops.
- Declaration of Independence (1776): On July 4th, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally announcing the colonies' separation from Britain.
- War Progression: The war saw various battles, with key turning points including Battle of Saratoga in 1777, which convinced France to enter the war as an ally to the American cause.
- Surrender at Yorktown (1781): General George Washington’s forces, with French assistance, cornered and accepted the surrender of British General Charles Cornwallis at Yorktown, effectively ending major fighting.
Aftermath
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