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The Boston Tea Party
After dark, a group of men in disguises snuck onto boats in the Boston Harbor. These men threw the tea chests shipped from England into the ocean. They did this as a rebuttal to paying taxes on the tea. This is important because it symbolizes the United States wanting to become independent. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
These battles were the official start of the fight for independence. In these battles, the "shot heard round the world" marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War for independence. Many people from the colonies joined the army to fight for freedom from Great Britain. -
The Declaration of Independence is Signed
Although written and celebrated on July 4th, the Declaration of Independence was signed on August 2nd. The Declaration was signed by 56 people at what is now called Independence Hall. -
The Winter at Valley Forge
Valley Forge was where the troops of George Washington stayed during the winter of 1777. During this time, many of the troops were dying because there was a lack of medicine and food. While it was a good place to stay to avoid battle, nearly 2,000 people died from disease and other things. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
This document served as the first constitution of the states. This document described how the government worked in the United States, including representation not based on population and the states having "every power". This system couldn't support the growing country, so the constitution was eventually completely rewritten. -
The Battle of Yorktown
The Battle of Yorktown marked the end of the military efforts of the Revolutionary War. General Washington's troops were supported by the French army and navy and eventually took down the British. After this, peaceful negotiations were made, and the states won their independence. -
The Constitution is Ratified
Ratifying can be referred to as approving a legally binding act. After a vote of the states, the Constitution was put into action. This is important because it was the foundation of the government of our country. -
Presidential Inauguration of George Washington
On this day, George Washington gave his presidential oath and inauguration speech in front of thousands. The ceremony to bring him into office was a big historical event and named him the first official president of the United States. -
Washington’s Farewell Address
Washington's Farewell Address wasn't publicly spoken, it was printed in a newspaper and released. Washington addressed how he wouldn't be returning for a third term, and warned the public of three things that would threaten the stability of the country's people. -
The Death of George Washington
George Washington passed away from a throat infection in Mount Vernon, VA. He was only around 67 years old. He was buried a few days later in his family vault. This is important because it was the death of the first president. -
Election Day, 1800
This election year, Thomas Jefferson, a Democratic-Republican, defeated John Adams, a Federalist. Many Americans feared the country splitting, but this didn't happen. This was the first-ever peaceful transition of power between political parties. -
Marbury v. Madison
This court case was an important change in the American government. This created the idea of judicial review by the Supreme Court. This allows the Supreme Court to declare new laws unconstitutional and strike them down if they violate the terms of the document.