Timeline of the Revolution

  • Passage of the Stamp Act

    Passage of the Stamp Act
    Britain passes the Stamp Act, imposing a tax on legal documents, newpapers, even playing cards. (First direct tax on the American colonists)
  • War Breaks Out

    War Breaks Out
    The first shots of the Revolutionary War fired at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts.
  • America Declares Its Independence

    America Declares Its Independence
    The Declaration of Independence is adopted by the Second Continental Congress. Representatives make the break with Britain.
  • Treaty of Paris Officially Ends the War

    Treaty of Paris Officially Ends the War
    The Treaty of Paris ratifies the independence of the 13 North American states.
  • U.S Constitution Replaces Articles of Confederation

    U.S Constitution Replaces Articles of Confederation
    A convention of States in Phladelphia proposes the Constitution to replace the much looser central government operating under the Articles of Confederation (adopted in 1777)