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Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party was an event that helped accelerate and intensify colonial support for the American Revolution. In 1774, Parliament issued the Intolerable Acts, or Coercive Acts, which, among other things, ended local self-government in Massachusetts and shut down the city's commerce. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
The Battles of Lexington and Concord were the first military engagements between British soldiers and American colonists. This moment is important to the Colonial Period because the first shots marked the start of the Revolutionary War and the battles demonstrated the colonists' willingness to resist British rule. -
The Declaration of Independence is Signed
The Declaration of Independence getting signed is a crucial moment for America as a whole. The U.S. is finally free from British rule and now had self-governance. This moment was important to the Colonial Period because it was the birth of a new American nationhood. -
The Winter at Valley Forge
The Winter at Valley Forge (Dec. 19- June 19, 1778) was led by George Washington and his army camped at Valley Forge during harsh winters with little to no supplies. This was important to the Colonial Period as it transformed the Continental Army and fostered leadership and unity. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
The ratification of the Articles of Confederation was the first constitution of the U.S. and was important to the Colonial Period by promoting unity and cooperation among the states and allowed for a more coordinated war effort. -
The Battle of Yorktown
The Battle of Yorktown (Sept. 28- Oct. 19) was a decisive victory for the Continental Army led by George Washington. This battle is important to the Colonial Period because it secured America's Independence from Britain and shaped American identity. -
The Constitution is Ratified
The Constitution being ratified was important to the Colonial Period by marking the birth of the US government and established a framework for constitutional law. -
Presidential Inauguration of George Washington
The presidential inauguration of George Washington was important to the Colonial Period by George being the first president and bringing unity and stability to the newly independent nation -
Washington’s Farewell Address
Washington's farewell address was crucial for the Colonial Period by warning others against partisanship and George gives his advice on foreign policy. -
The Death of George Washington
The Death of George Washington marked the end of an era, as he was the last of the major Founding Fathers to die. This is important to the Colonial Period by cementing his legacy as the "Father of the Country." -
Election Day, 1800
Election Day, 1800 is the presidential election in which Thomas Jefferson defeated President John Adams. This was important to the Colonial Period by marking the first peaceful transfer of power between political parties in the US and it was the end of the Federalists Party's dominance. -
Marbury vs. Madison
Marbury v. Madison was a landmark Supreme Court case that established the principle of judicial review. This case is important to the Colonial Period by protecting the principles of constitutional governance and ensuring the rule of law and limited government.