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The Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party was a crucial moment that sped up and deepened the backing of the American Revolution among the colonies. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
The brutality transformed a rebellion against British rules into a struggle for self-governance. Lexington and Concord inspired numerous Americans to back the 'revolution'. For John Adams, these conflicts marked the point 'the decision was made, the Rubicon was crossed'. -
The Declaration of Independence is Signed
Through the issuance of the Declaration of Independence, ratified by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies cut off their political ties with Great Britain. The Declaration outlined the reasons behind the colonists' desire for freedom. -
The Winter at Valley Forge
Valley Forge served as a naturally protected high ground where troops could practice and recover from the battles of the year, and the damp and chilly winter conditions, muddy and unnavigable roads, and limited resources reduced the likelihood of large-scale battles. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
Passed by the Continental Congress on November 15, 1777, and approved by the states in 1781, the Articles of Confederation established a feeble central government—a "league of friendship"—that mostly maintained the power and independence of the states. -
The Battle of Yorktown
With the backing of the French military and naval forces, George Washington's troops overcame Lord Charles Cornwallis' experienced army, which had taken a defensive position at Yorktown, Virginia. The triumph at Yorktown paved the way for the peace talks that concluded the conflict in 1783, securing America's freedom. -
Presidential Inauguration of George Washington
George Washington established a standard for subsequent presidents by giving his inaugural speech on April 30, 1789. -
The Constitution is Ratified
The Constitution established a government and set boundaries on it to avoid capricious governance. Especially through its modifications, the Constitution ensures that every American possesses basic rights and the safeguarding of life, freedom, and possessions. -
Washington’s Farewell Address
The Farewell Address of Washington, released at the conclusion of his second term, remains a classic cautionary tale regarding the threats to the democratic principles of the United States. In 1796, President Washington made the choice to step down from his role in public service. -
Election Day, 1800
The election marked a shift in political alignment that brought about a new era of leadership under the Democratic-Republican party. This election stood as the inaugural presidential contest in U.S. history to feature a rematch. The map of presidential election outcomes uses green to indicate states won by Jefferson and orange to represent states won by Adams. -
The Death of George Washington
He was the first president of the United States, the leader of the Continental Army, the chairman of the Constitutional Convention, and the agriculturalist. In these positions, Washington demonstrated both integrity and leadership. -
Marbury vs. Madison
In the case of Marbury v. Madison, which took place in 1803, the Supreme Court made history by ruling the first time that a law passed by Congress was found to be against the Constitution. This ruling established the principle of judicial review and established the Supreme Court of the United States as the primary interpreter of the Constitution.