American Revolution: Key Events and Acts (1764-1777)

What was the purpose of the Sugar Act of 1764?

To raise revenue from the American colonies by taxing sugar and molasses.

What was the Stamp Act of 1765 and what was its outcome?

It imposed a direct tax on the colonies requiring them to purchase special stamped paper for legal documents, newspapers, and other publications; it was repealed in 1766 due to boycotts and violence.

What did the Townshend Act of 1767 tax, and what happened in 1770?

It taxed goods such as tea, glass, lead, paper, and paint; it was repealed in 1770.

What event occurred on March 5, 1770, in Boston?

The Boston Massacre, where British soldiers killed five colonists.

What was the Boston Tea Party and when did it occur?

On December 16, 1773, Patriot leaders disguised as Indians boarded ships and dumped tea into Boston Harbor as a protest against British taxation.

What were the Intolerable Acts and what did they do?

Passed in 1774 as punishment for the Boston Tea Party, they closed the port of Boston and increased the power of the royal governor.

What was the significance of the First Continental Congress in 1774?

It was a meeting of representatives from 12 colonies in Philadelphia to address colonial grievances.

Who were some notable delegates at the First Continental Congress?

Sam Adams, John Adams, George Washington, and Patrick Henry.

What event marked the beginning of the American Revolution on April 18, 1775?

Paul Revere's Ride and the Battles of Lexington and Concord.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Bunker Hill in June 1775?

It was a British victory at a heavy cost, demonstrating that the Continental militia could stand up to the British regular army.

What was the Olive Branch Petition adopted by the Second Continental Congress?

A plea to Britain for peace that was ultimately rejected by King George III.

When did George Washington take command of the Continental Army?

In July 1775.

What significant document was written on July 4, 1776?

The Declaration of Independence, authored by Thomas Jefferson.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Brooklyn in August to September 1776?

A significant victory for the British, resulting in a major loss for the American rebels.

What was the strategic importance of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775?

It provided cannons that were crucial for the Continental Army's efforts in Boston.

What surprise attack did Washington lead across the Delaware River in December 1776?

The Battle of Trenton.

What was the significance of the Battle of Saratoga in Fall 1777?

It was a turning point that led to France becoming an ally of America.

What role did Henry Knox play in the American Revolution?

He proposed retrieving cannons from Fort Ticonderoga to fortify positions around Boston.

What was the impact of Britain's national debt after the war?

Britain's national debt doubled, leading to increased taxation in the colonies.

What was the Committees of Correspondence established in 1772?

An underground network organized by Samuel Adams to facilitate communication among Patriot leaders.