Colonial rebellion, independence, war and the creation of a republic built alongside slavery.
The American Revolution began as a crisis within the British Empire and became a war for independence. Colonists mobilised arguments about representation and rights while many remained loyal, neutral or excluded.
Victory created a republic, but slavery expanded in the new nation and Indigenous sovereignty faced intensified pressure.
British attempts to tax and govern after the Seven Years' War met colonial resistance. Protest developed into competing claims about parliamentary and popular sovereignty.
Fighting began in 1775. The Continental Army survived major defeats, and French military and financial support proved essential to final victory.
The Articles of Confederation gave way to a stronger federal constitution. Compromises protected slavery, while voting remained largely controlled by states and property rules.
The conflict affected Canada, the Caribbean, Europe and Indigenous nations. It helped inspire later revolutions while preserving social hierarchies.
A direct tax generated organised resistance.
Protesters destroyed taxed tea.
Armed conflict began.
Congress declared the colonies independent.
American victory encouraged formal French alliance.
British surrender ended major campaigning.
Delegates designed a new federal government.
Why did compromise inside the empire fail?
How decisive was French intervention?
Whose liberty did independence protect?
Begin with the foundations, then move into the events, people and debates that add detail and complexity.
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MediumConnect causes, consequences and historical interpretation across the essential American Revolution guide.
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