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Battles of Lexington and Concord
These battles marked the beginning of the revolution. It was also a devastating loss for the British and it helped more Americans start to fight for the cause of independence. -
Meeting of the Second Continental Congress
The Congress appointed George Washington as commander of the Continental Army, and authorized the raising of an army through conscription. -
Battle of Bunker Hill
The American patriots were defeated at the Battle of Bunker Hill, but they made a valiant effort and proved that they could hold their own agains the British. It also confirmed that reconciliation between England and America was no longer an option. -
Failed Seizure of Quebec under Benedict Arnold
This battle marked the first major defeat for the Americans during the Revolutionary war when they attempted to capture the British occupied city of Quebec. -
Common Sense Published
a pamphlet advocated independence for the American colonies from Britain and is considered one of the most influential pamphlets in American history. -
Adoption of the Declaration of Independence
the declaration severed America's political connections to Great Britain. The Declaration also summarized the colonists' motivations for seeking independence. -
Battle of Trenton
the Hessian army was crushed in Washington's raid across the Delaware River and the Americans were invigorated by the easy defeat. -
Battle of Saratoga
a turning point in the American Revolution because it persuaded the French, Spanish and Dutch to join the cause against a mutual rival. -
Paoli Massacre (Battle of Paoli)
around 53 Continental Army soldiers lost their lives and around 200 were wounded or taken prisoner during a bayonet assault by many British troops. -
Washington’s Encampment at Valley Forge
The losses during Washingtons time at the Encampment at Valley forge had led members of the Continental Congress to want to replace Washington, believing that he was an incompetent leader.