What was the American Revolutionary War?

The American Revolutionary War was fought between Great Britain and its thirteen North American colonies that declared their independence as the United States. With the help of France, Spain, and the Netherlands, the United States prevailed and won its independence in 1783.

When was the American Revolutionary War fought?

The American Revolutionary War began on 19 April 1775 and ended in September 1783.

Where was the American Revolutionary War fought?

The American Revolutionary War was fought primarily on the eastern coast of the United States, although battles were also fought in Canada and on the western frontier, as well as in the West Indies, India, and even in Europe (Siege of Gibraltar).

Who fought in the American Revolutionary War?

The American Revolutionary War was fought between the fledgling United States and its allies, which included France, Spain, and the Dutch Republic against Great Britain and its German mercenaries. Various Native American nations also fought on each side.

American Revolutionary War Timeline

Definition

The American Revolutionary War (1775-1783), or the American War of Independence, was a conflict between Great Britain and its 13 North American colonies, who declared independence as the United States of America. Initially a rebellion within the British Empire, the war took on a global scope when France and Spain joined against the British, contributing to the eventual American victory.

More about: American Revolutionary War

Timeline

5 Mar 1770
The Boston Massacre occurs; nine British soldiers fire into a crowd of American colonists, killing five and wounding six others.
Mar 1774 - Jun 1774
British Parliament passes the Intolerable Acts to punish the Thirteen Colonies for the Boston Tea Party.
5 Sep 1774 - 26 Oct 1774
The First Continental Congress meets in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to coordinate a response to the Intolerable Acts.
1775 - 1783
The American Revolutionary War.
19 Apr 1775
The Battles of Lexington and Concord kick off the American War of Independence.
10 May 1775
The Second Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
5 Jun 1775
The Second Continental Congress adopts the Olive Branch Petition in a final attempt at reconciliation with Great Britain.
15 Jun 1775
The Second Continental Congress adopts the Continental Army, names George Washington as commander-in-chief.
13 Oct 1775
The Second Continental Congress votes to establish the Continental Navy.
4 Jul 1776
The Second Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence; the United States of America is established.
27 Aug 1776
Battle of Long Island; the Continental Army is defeated by British troops and German auxiliaries.
Dec 1776
The Second Continental Congress is forced to evacuate Philadelphia at the approach of the British army; Washington is granted near dictatorial powers.
26 Dec 1776
After recrossing the Delaware River, Gen. George Washington surprises and defeats a Hessian garrison at the Battle of Trenton.
26 Sep 1777
Philadelphia is captured by a British army; Congress flees to York, Pennsylvania.
Nov 1777 - Apr 1778
The Conway Cabal threatens to remove George Washington from his role as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army but is ultimately thwarted.
19 Dec 1777 - 18 Jun 1778
The Continental Army spends a grueling winter at Valley Forge. The supply department is reformed and the soldiers are trained, creating a more effective fighting force.
19 Oct 1781
Gen. George Washington accepts the surrender of Lord Cornwallis following the Siege of Yorktown.
3 Sep 1783
The Treaty of Paris ends the American Revolutionary War. The treaty acknowledges the United States as a sovereign and independent nation.