Overview
Timelines
Overview and main events
Colonial Settlement and American Revolution
The New Nation and Early Expansion
Civil War and Reconstruction
Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny
Industrialization and the Progressive Era
World War II and the Post-War Era
Civil Rights and Social Movements
Presidential History and Notable Leaders
Chronicle
Articles
Colonial Settlement and American Revolution
This timeline covers the pivotal events from the colonial settlement of North America to the American Revolution, marking the transition from British colonies to the independent United States of America.
1585
British Colonization of the Atlantic Coast
The British Empire begins colonizing the Atlantic Coast of North America, establishing the first permanent settlement at Roanoke Island.
1765
Stamp Act
The British Parliament imposes the Stamp Act, a tax on printed materials, which sparks widespread resistance among the colonists
1773
Boston Tea Party
Colonists, disguised as Native Americans, board British ships and throw cargoes of tea into the harbor to protest British taxation policies.
1774
Massachusetts Government Act
The British Parliament passes the Massachusetts Government Act, one of the Intolerable Acts, which further restricts colonial self-government.
April 19, 1775
Battles of Lexington and Concord
The first battles of the American Revolutionary War take place, marking the beginning of armed conflict between the colonies and Great Britain.
July 4, 1776
Declaration of Independence
The Second Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, formally declaring the thirteen colonies as independent states.
September 3, 1783
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris is signed, officially ending the American Revolutionary War and recognizing the independence of the United States.
