American Revolution

Lexington and Concord

  • Lexington Green: The site of the first armed conflict between British troops and colonial militia.

  • Old North Bridge at Concord: Known for the famous "shot heard 'round the world," marking the beginning of the Revolutionary War.

Common Sense by Thomas Paine

  • A significant pamphlet that sold over 120,000 copies within three months.

  • Played a crucial role in persuading many colonists to support independence from British rule.

The Battle of Trenton

  • This was a pivotal American victory occurring in December 1776.

  • The victory energized troops, persuading many soldiers to remain in the military and continue the struggle for independence.

Saratoga Campaign

  • Key Route: From Canada (Montreal and St. Johns) to key American locations, including Fort Ticonderoga and Saratoga.

  • Timeline: Notable dates include:

    • June 17: Burgoyne departs from Canada.

    • July 6: Capture of Fort Ticonderoga.

    • September 19 and October 7: Battles of Saratoga.

  • Significance: The American victories at Saratoga convinced the French of the U.S.'s potential to win the war.

Benedict Arnold Monument at Saratoga

  • The victory at Saratoga in 1777 was critical, leading to France declaring war on Britain in 1778.

  • This alliance assured U.S. independence by bringing French military support into the conflict.

Southern Campaign

  • A British strategy aimed at reasserting control in the southern colonies, deemed economically valuable.

  • The British believed these colonies had strong Loyalist sentiments and would be receptive to British governance.

Southern Campaign Mapping

  • Key locations involved in the southern campaign included:

    • Virginia: Yorktown, Petersburg

    • North Carolina: Camden, Hillsborough, Edenton

    • South Carolina: Charleston, Wilmington

    • Georgia: Augusta

  • The campaign shows how British forces attempted to regain influence over critical regions.

Results of the American Revolution

  • Independence: The United States emerged as an independent nation.

  • Economic Changes: The revolution sparked the beginning of American industry and rapid inflation.

  • Social Changes: There was a decline in support for slavery and the separation of church and state as many states ceased to endorse specific denominations.