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1754-1763 - French and Indian War
Britain and France fought over land in North America. After the war, Britain was in debt and started taxing the colonies. -
1765-The Stamp Act
Britain taxed paper goods in the colonies (like newspapers and playing cards). The colonists were angry – “No taxation without representation!” -
1770- The Boston Massacre
British soldiers fired into a crowd of colonists in Boston, killing five. It increased anger and tension in the colonies. -
1773- The Boston Tea Party
Colonists (disguised as Native Americans) dumped British tea into the Boston Harbor to protest the Tea Act. -
1774- The intolerable acts
Britain punished Boston by closing the harbor and taking away rights. Colonies became more united against British rule. -
1775- Battles of Lexington and Concord
The first battles of the American Revolution. “The shot heard ’round the world.” -
1776 Declaration of Independence
Colonists officially declared independence from Britain. Thomas Jefferson wrote the document. -
1777-Battle of Saratoga
A major American victory and a turning point in the war. France decided to help the colonies. -
Winter 1777-1778 Valley Forage
Washington’s army spent a hard winter training at Valley Forge. Many soldiers died, but they came out stronger. -
1781- Battle of Yorktown
The final major battle. General Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington. -
1783 Treaty of Paris
The war officially ended. Britain recognized the United States as an independent country.