Revolutionary War
📖 Learn
The American Revolution (1775-1783) was the war that transformed 13 British colonies into a new, independent nation: the United States of America. Let's explore why the colonists decided to fight for independence and how they won!
⚔️ What Was the Revolutionary War?
The Revolutionary War was a conflict between Great Britain and its 13 American colonies. The colonists were unhappy with British rule—especially being taxed without having a say in government. After years of tension, the colonists decided to fight for their freedom and create their own country.
Causes of the Revolution
Several events pushed the colonists toward rebellion. The main issue was "taxation without representation"—colonists had to pay taxes to Britain but had no voice in the British Parliament.
Stamp Act
Britain taxed all paper goods—newspapers, legal documents, even playing cards! Colonists protested: "No taxation without representation!"
1765Boston Tea Party
Colonists, dressed as Native Americans, dumped 342 chests of British tea into Boston Harbor to protest tea taxes.
1773Intolerable Acts
Britain punished Boston by closing its port and limiting self-government. This united the colonies against Britain.
1774Lexington & Concord
"The shot heard round the world"—the first battles of the Revolutionary War. The war had begun!
April 1775The Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. This document explained why the colonies were breaking away from Britain and stated that all people have basic rights that governments must protect.
Key Events of the War
The war begins! British troops clash with colonial minutemen in Massachusetts.
The colonies officially declare independence from Britain.
Washington's army endures a brutal winter but emerges stronger and better trained.
France becomes America's ally, providing troops, money, and ships.
The final major battle. British General Cornwallis surrenders to Washington.
Britain officially recognizes American independence. The war is over!
Key Figures of the Revolution
George Washington
Led the Continental Army. Later became 1st President.
Thomas Jefferson
Wrote the Declaration of Independence.
Benjamin Franklin
Convinced France to help America.
Patrick Henry
"Give me liberty, or give me death!"
Paul Revere
Famous midnight ride to warn colonists.
King George III
Refused to grant colonial rights.
🎯 Why Did America Win?
- Fighting for home: Colonists were defending their own land
- George Washington: His leadership kept the army together
- Help from France: French troops, ships, and money were crucial
- Knowledge of the land: Americans knew the terrain better
- Determination: Patriots believed deeply in liberty
💡 Examples
Test your knowledge of the Revolutionary War!
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✏️ Practice
✅ Check Your Understanding
📜 Declaration
Adopted July 4, 1776, declaring independence and stating all people have rights.
💰 Taxation
"No taxation without representation" was the colonists' main complaint.
🍵 Boston Tea Party
Colonists dumped tea in the harbor to protest British taxes.
🎖️ Washington
Led the Continental Army to victory; became first President.
🇫🇷 French Help
France provided crucial support with troops, ships, and money.
🏆 Victory
Treaty of Paris (1783) officially ended the war.
🎯 Key Takeaways
- The Revolution was caused by British taxes and lack of colonial representation
- The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776
- George Washington led the Continental Army through the entire war
- France's alliance was crucial to American victory
- The Treaty of Paris (1783) officially ended the war
🚀 Next Steps
- Learn about the Constitution in the next unit
- Research other heroes of the Revolution
- Visit a Revolutionary War historic site if you can