By: Stephen Polidoro

The Continental Army was created by Congress to fight against Britain for self-government. Was more organized than colonial militias. George Washington was unanimously chosen by congress to be the commander. George Washington took charge of the Colonial Forces in Boston. Congress gave Britain one last chance to avoid an “all out war”.

Had huge advantages in the war: Strongest navy in the war Experienced and well trained Had wealth of a world-wide empire Larger population than the United States (6 million more)

Americans British African Americans – British offered freedom after war if they joined their forces. Native Americans – British promised to slow down westward movement if they joined army

The Battles of Lexington & Concord – April 1775 The first shot fired began the war Sir Thomas Gage Head of British Army Was told to get the weapons of the Massachusetts militia and arrest leaders of the group When troops arrived in Concord, they found most weapons gone and were attacked by local townspeople Paul Revere & William Dawes Alerted Samuel Adams & John Handcock that the British were on their way This battle was the first victory over British

June 16 th, 1775 William Prescott lead the American Troops “Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes” British won because Americans ran out of gunpowder and had to withdraw. More than 1,000 dead.

Burgoyne head of British army Surrendered because US army was too powerful. Victory for the Colonists Victory helped US receive foreign assistance that would help win the war

MUSKETS TOMAHAWKS SWORDS CANNONS KNIVES PISTOLS RIFLES POLE ARMS BAYONETS LONG RIFLES

United States: Washington used a semicircle formation around Boston and used cannons to bombard the British army. British: British had troops based in Canada. Captured New York to use as a base to conquer the middle colonies. Many British Loyalists lived there.

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