American Revolution: Key Points and Summary

Overview

• The American Revolution, also known as the U.S. War of Independence, was fought between 1775 and 1783.
• 13 of Great Britain’s North American colonies fought against British rule to establish the United States of America.
• The revolution culminated with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1783, granting U.S. independence.

Causes

• British attempts to exert greater control over colonies following a period of salutary neglect.
• Imposition of taxes and laws such as the Sugar Act (1764), Stamp Act (1765), and Intolerable Acts (1774).
• Resistance to taxation without representation and loss of colonial self-governance.

Early Stages

• Began with skirmishes at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775.
• Paul Revere’s ride warned of British troop movements, leading to armed conflict.
• The Battles of Lexington and Concord resulted in significant colonial resistance.

Key Battles and Events

Battles of Lexington and Concord

• British attempt to seize colonial arms leads to their retreat under fire.

Siege of Boston and Battle of Bunker Hill

• Rebels converge on Boston; British troops commanded under General Gage.
• Despite losing the hill, the Americans gain a moral victory.

Role of the Continental and British Armies

• The Continental Army and militias faced challenges in manpower and resources.
• British forces comprised professional soldiers with mercenaries from German states.

French and Spanish Involvement

• The American Revolution became international as France (1778) and Spain (1779) joined the war against Britain.

Final Phases

• Key events include the surrender of British General Cornwallis at Yorktown in 1781.
• The French navy played a crucial role in this victory.

Conclusion

• The Treaty of Paris (1783) formally ended the war, recognizing U.S. independence.
• The revolution set the stage for the development of the United States as an independent nation.

Notable Figures

• Leaders such as George Washington, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson played crucial roles.

Aftermath and Legacy

• The American Revolution inspired other colonial movements worldwide.
• Established a republican form of government in the United States, influencing global political ideas.