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The Stamp Act
The Stamp Act was a law passed by the British Parliament in 1765. It required American colonists to pay tax on every piece of paper they used, including newspapers, legal documents, and even playing cards. This tax was a way for the British government to raise money and assert control over the American colonies. It sparked widespread protest and resistance. -
The Boston Massacre
It was a clash between British soldiers and a group of American colonists. Tensions were high due to the presence of British troops in the city, and a scuffle broke out. In the chaos, the soldiers fired into the crowd, killing five colonists. This event further fueled the growing resentment towards British rule. -
The Boston Tea Party
It was a protest against the British government's tax on tea. A group of American colonists, dressed as Native Americans, boarded three British ships and dumped 342 chests of tea into the Boston Harbor. It was a bold act of defiance and a symbol of resistance against British rule. -
The Battle of Lexington
British troops were sent to seize a stockpile of weapons and ammunition that the colonists had stored in Concord. However, the American militia, known as the minutemen, were ready to defend their rights and fought back. The first shots of the Revolutionary war were fired here. Liberty Kids -
The Declaration of Independence
It was adopted by the continental Congress, the declaration announced that the thirteen American colonies regarding themselves as independent states, no longer under British rule. It outlined the reasons for seeking independence and proclaimed the fundamental rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. -
The Battle of Saratoga
Fought twice once on September 19th and the other time on October 7th. The British army, led by General John Burgoyne, was trying to cut off New England from the rest of the colonies. However, American forces, commanded by General Horatio Gates, were able to successfully defend their position and eventually defeat the British. This victory convinced France to formally ally with the Americans, providing crucial support in their fight for independence. -
The Battle of Yorktown
Started Sep 28, 1781. It was a decisive victory for the American and French forces against the British. General George Washington and French General Comte de Rochambeau led a combined army to trap British General Charles Cornwallis and his troops. The American and French forces besieged Yorktown, and after weeks of intense fighting, Cornwallis was forced to surrender. -
The Treaty of Paris
It marked the official end of the American Revolution and recognized the independence of the United States. The treaty was signed between the United States and Great Britain, with representatives from both sides coming together to negotiate the terms. It established the boundaries of the new nation and outlined various provisions for trade and navigation. -
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The Constitutional Convention
Started May 14th 1787. Took place in Philadelphia. It's purpose was to revise the existing Articles of Confederation, which were the governing document at the time. However, the delegates ended up drafting an entirely new constitution that established the framework for the United States government that we still use today. The convention brought together some of the brightest minds of the time, George Washington, James Madison, and Ben Franklin to discuss and debate the structure needed. -
George Washington
In the federal hall of New York City George Washington was inaugurated as the first president of the United States. Washington took the oath of office and delivered his inaugural address, setting the tone for his presidency. This moment marked the beginning of a new era and the establishment of the presidency as the integral part of the American democracy. -
The Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the constitution, is ratified it spells out rights for Americans. These amendments guarantee certain fundamental rights and freedoms to all citizens. The Bill of Rights ensures that individuals have certain protections and limits the power of government. It's such a crucial document that safeguards our rights and liberties.
