-
Shots fired
The first shots of the war are fired at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts. It is still unclear which side fired the first shots. This event is known as "the shot heard around the world." -
Period: to
American Revolution
This timeline features main events of the Revolutionary War. -
Bunker Hill
Americans win against the British at the Battle of Bunker Hill. William Prescott famously told his men, "Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes!" Link text -
Declaration of Independence
Americans formally declare independence from Britain. The Declaration of Independence was drafted by the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Independence Hall. Link text -
New allies
France allies with the Americans against Britain. France provides financial aid that is crucial for American victory. -
American loss at Charleston
British take Charleston, South Carolina, bringing the war to a stalemate. This victory encouraged the British to pursue capturing southern states. -
British surrender
British army surrenders at Yorktown, but New York City and Charleston remain under British control. The British were under the leadership of General Cornwallis at the time. -
War ends
Treaty of Paris formally ends war, but Canada remains under British rule. Britain recognized the thirteen colonies as free and independent from its rule. -
Constitution
The Constitution of the United States replaces the Articles of Confederation. It outlines the separation of powers, branches of government, and the first ten amendments are known as the Bill of Rights. Link text
