American RevolutionAmerican Revolution

1776

““Common Sense” by Thomas PaineCommon Sense” by Thomas Paine

• Jan. 15, 1776• Common Sense

published• Inspired Colonists to

fight the British• “When my country, into

which I had just set my foot, was set on fire about my ears, it was time to stir. It was time for every man to stir.”

Thomas PaineThomas Paine

Washington’s Siege of BostonWashington’s Siege of Boston

• March 1776

• Washington & his troops attack the British in Boston

• Washington drives British from Boston

Declaration of Independence!Declaration of Independence!

• Representatives from every colony meet in Philadelphia in June 1776

• Reps discuss declaring independence from Britain

• Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration

• Approved on July 4, 1776

Washington loses New York, but Washington loses New York, but find success in New Jerseyfind success in New Jersey

• British Gen. Howe & 32K troops conquer Long Island & Manhattan (Aug.-Oct.)

• American teacher Nathan Hale spies on British & is caught– “I only regret that I

have but one life to lose for my country”

• Washington retreats to NJ in Nov. ‘76

Trenton & Princeton: The American SpiritTrenton & Princeton: The American Spirit• Washington crosses

the icy Delaware river on Christmas night ’76

• Defeats British army in Trenton– Lord Cornwallis &

reinforcements rally to Trenton

• Washington moves away from Trenton & attacks British @ Princeton

(Jan. 3, 1777)

Washington crosses the DelawareWashington crosses the Delaware