Opposition in colonial North America to British policies escalates into violence. But war gives 13 otherwise disunited colonies a common cause.

George Washington takes command of the Continental Army and joins New England’s fight to liberate Boston. Congress declares American independence.

The British overwhelm Washington’s army, forcing him to abandon New York City and flee across New Jersey. Americans attack a garrison at Trenton

The British take Philadelphia, and Congress flees the city. But an American victory at Saratoga allows France to openly support the United States.

After Valley Forge and Monmouth, the war moves to other theatres. Armies advance in Indian country and the south

Supported by the French, Washington wins the decisive victory at Yorktown. In peacetime, Americans aspire for a more perfect union.