New Englanders rush to surround the British Army in Boston, but as war begins Americans find themselves sharply divided. After the Battle of Bunker’s Hill, George Washington of Virginia arrives to command the newly created Continental Army. In July 1776, the Continental Congress issues the Declaration of Independence, insisting on the people’s right to resist tyranny and govern themselves.
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
