The American Revolution Begins

First Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia of colonial delegates in stopped trade with Britain and alerted colonial militias to prepare for war. Declaration of Rights - right to “life, liberty, and property” King George refused Dec. of Rights

sent British troops to Concord to seize the local militia’s weapons arrest Samuel Adams and John Hancock in Lexington. Paul Revere and William Dawes would ride to Lexington to warn Adams and Hancock. British General Thomas Gage Lexington & Concord

Old North Church -- “One if by land, two if by sea!” Two lanterns were placed in the steeple to alert Revere and Dawes that the British were crossing the Charles River and going “by sea”.

Revere & Dawes rode toward Lexington, alerting everyone along the way that the British troops were coming. They were later joined by a third rider -- Dr. Samuel Prescott.

Battle of Lexington & Concord April 19, 1775 = First battle of American Revolution Minutemen (Massachusetts’ militia) British Troops (Redcoats) under Major Pitcairn

Shot Heard ‘Round the World Someone fired the first shot at Lexington. Who was it -- the Colonists or the British?

The Battle of Lexington & Concord  No one knows who fired the first shot  By the time the British reached Concord the Minutemen had already moved some of the weapons.  The fighting continued and the British were forced to retreat back to Boston.  The British had over 250 casualties, compared to less than 100 for the colonists.  This would later be considered the first battle of the American Revolution.

Second Continental Congress colonial meeting in Philadelphia in May Some called for peace, others for war. Compromised & sent Olive Branch Petition to King George. (King refused it.) George Washington to command new Continental Army and prepare for war