Revolution timeline

  • Addition of Freed African Soldiers

    African Americans played a crucial role in the war, with many fighting for both the Continental Army and British forces, often seeking freedom.
  • Period: to

    Boston

    A focal point of revolutionary activity, with events like the Boston Tea Party (1773) and the Siege of Boston
  • Concord and Lexington

    The first military engagements of the war on April 19, 1775, marking the start of armed conflict between Britain and the American colonies.
  • Bunker Hill

    A costly British victory that demonstrated colonial resolve and encouraged the rebellion.
  • New York

    Site of major battles, including the Battle of Brooklyn, leading to significant British control in the region
  • Trenton

    A surprise attack by George Washington led to a pivotal victory for the Continental Army, boosting morale.
  • Foreign Officers Arrive (Prussia and France)

    Figures like Marquis de Lafayette and Friedrich von Steuben provided essential military expertise to the Continental Army.
  • Period: to

    Saratoga

    A turning point in the war; American victories convinced France to support the colonies, leading to a formal alliance.
  • Period: to

    Yorktown

    The decisive battle where American and French forces trapped British General Cornwallis, leading to his surrender.
  • Princeton

    Another key victory for Washington, solidifying the momentum gained after Trenton.
  • Period: to

    Valley Forge

    he site of the Continental Army's winter encampment, where troops endured hardship but emerged better trained under Baron von Steuben.
  • Period: to

    Clinton Takes the Carolinas and Georgia

    British General Clinton focused on the southern campaign, capturing key cities and attempting to rally Loyalist support.
  • Monmouth

    An indecisive battle that showcased improved American military tactics and discipline.
  • End of the Fighting

    Although the last significant battle was at Yorktown, skirmishes continued in some areas until the Treaty of Paris was signed, bringing an official end to hostilities.
  • Treaty of Paris

    The agreement that officially ended the war and recognized American independence.