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Battle of Lexington and Concord
These were the first military battles of The American Revolutionary War. Massachusetts militia defeated British Army forces. -
• Meeting of the Second Continental Congress
This was a convention of delegates from the 13 colonies that formed in Philadelphia and met in Independence Hall. Their purpose was to let the colonies present the complaints to the British. -
Battle of Bunker Hill
This battle was fought during the Siege of Boston. It is named after Bunker Hill which is located in Charlestown, Massachusetts. -
• Failed Seizure of Quebec under Benedict Arnold
Patriot forces under Colonel Benedict Arnold and General Richard Montgomery tried to capture Quebec which was occupied by the British. The British won and support for the American cause in Canada was not achieved. -
Common Sense Published
This pamphlet was written by Thomas Paine but written anonymously. It detailed the need for American independence from the British. -
Adoption of the Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Second Continental Congress. It was signed by 56 men representing the 13 colonies and explained why they were rejecting British rule. -
• Battle of Trenton
This was a small battle in Trenton, New Jersey. George Washington's army wins after crossing the Delaware River during a dangerous storm. -
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• Battle of Saratoga
This was the climax of the Saratoga campaign and was a turning point in the American Revolution. In addition to boosting morale, it also convinced the French, Spanish, and Dutch to join the American cause against the British. -
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• Paoli Massacre (Battle of Paoli)
General Charles Grey and almost 5,000 British soldiers led a sneak attack against American forces. The massacre took place in what is now Malvern, Pennsylvania. -
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Washington’s Encampment at Valley Forge
This is the winter camp site where Washington taught his soldiers among other things, how to use the bayonet and re-form lines in the midst of battle. The camp was located about 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia.