-
End of The French and Indian War
In 1763, the treaty of Paris is signed, ending the war and giving Britain control over most of North America. -
Sugar Act
In 1764, the British Parliament passes the Sugar Act, imposing taxes on sugar, molasses, and other goods imported to the colonies. This act was intended to raise revenue for Britain and to help pay off some war debts. -
Stamp Act
In 1765, the Stamp Act is passed by parliament, requiring colonists to purchase and use special stamped paper for legal documents, newspapers, and other printed materials. This was the first direct tax on the colonies and sparked widespread protests. -
Declaratory Act
In 1766, following the repeal of the Stamp Act, Parliament passes the Declaratory Act, asserting its right to legislate for the colonies. -
Townshend Act
In 1767, a series of measures known as the Townshend acts are passed, imposing duties on glass, led, paint, paper, and tea imported into the colonies. These acts lead to further unrest in boycott of British goods. -
Tea Act
In 1773, the tea act is established, giving the British east India company control on tea sales in the colonies in allowing it to sell tea directly to the colonies, bypassing colonial merchants. This leads the famous Boston tea party in December 1773. -
Start of the Revolutionary War
In 1775, the revolutionary war begins with the battles of Lexington and concord in April 1775, following increasing tensions in colonial resistance to British policies.