History Test Guide

Shot Heard Round the World

The first shot fired at the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775, marking the beginning of the Revolutionary War.

Minutemen

Colonial militia members ready to fight at a moment's notice, crucial in early confrontations of the war.

Second Continental Congress

Convened in May 1775, managed the Colonial war effort and moved toward independence, forming the Continental Army.

Olive Branch Petition

Sent to King George III in July 1775 as a final attempt to avoid war while affirming loyalty and seeking peace.

Hessians

German mercenaries hired by the British to fight against the American colonists.

Thomas Jefferson

Primary author of the Declaration of Independence and a key figure in advocating for independence.

Benjamin Franklin

Founding father and diplomat who helped secure French support for the Revolution.

John Paul Jones

Naval commander known for victories against British vessels, famously declared, 'I have not yet begun to fight!'

Declaration of Independence (1776)

Document that announced the colonies' separation from Britain, articulating principles of liberty and consent of the governed.

Loyalist (Tory)

Colonists who remained loyal to the British crown during the Revolutionary War, often persecuted in the colonies.

Patriot (Whig)

Colonists who rebelled against British control and fought for independence.

Valley Forge (1777-1778)

Site of the Continental Army's winter encampment, marked by hardships but crucial for training under General von Steuben.

Peace of Paris, 1783

Agreement that ended the war, recognizing the independence of the United States and establishing borders.

Molly Pitcher

Nickname for women who participated in battle, notably Mary Ludwig Hayes who took her husband's place at a cannon.

Deborah Sampson

Woman who disguised as a man to fight in the Continental Army, highlighting women's contributions to the war effort.

Robert Morris

Financier of the American Revolution known for securing funding and supplies for the Continental Army.

Thomas Gage

British general whose troops opened fire at Lexington; later evacuated Boston.

William Howe

Commander in chief of British forces who led attacks at Bunker Hill and captured New York City.

John Burgoyne

General known for his campaign in the Hudson River and surrender at the Battle of Saratoga.

St. Leger

Commanded a British force during the failed attempt to seize Fort Stanwix.

Cornwallis

British general whose surrender at Yorktown in 1781 led to the American victory.

George Washington

Commander of the Continental Army, pivotal in leading American forces to victory.

Benedict Arnold

Initially an American hero, became infamous for treason in aiding the British.

Horatio Gates

Led the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the war.

Lafayette

French general who played a crucial role in coordinating French support.

Nathaniel Greene

Major general known for strategic retreats and resource management in the Southern campaign.

Daniel Morgan

Talented commander known for victory at the Battle of Cowpens.

Yorktown

Marked the end of major combat operations with Cornwallis's surrender, leading to peace negotiations.

Bunker Hill

Significant early battle demonstrating American resolve despite a British victory.

Trenton

Washington's surprise attack on Christmas night in 1776, leading to a crucial American victory.

Saratoga

Considered the turning point of the war, convincing France to support the American cause.

Charleston

Major victory for the British, resulting in the capture of thousands of American soldiers.

Cowpens

Decisive victory for the Americans in 1781, showcasing effective military tactics.