1776

Continental Congress issues Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson, a 33-year-old delegate was appointed to compose the declaration. The Declaration begins with a preamble or introduction. After the preamble there are three main sections. The first sections is mostly about ideas for the society and government. .

This was a document to explain why they are breaking away from Great Britain and what they would do after words. It was not until July 4, 1776 the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. The signing of the Declaration was on August 2. After the Declaration of Independence was finished now the Patriots were not fighting for fairer treatment, but for freedom and a new nation.

1777

American Victory at Saratoga marks turning point in war. At the village of Saratoga, New York, the Americans surrounded the British soldiers. After suffering heavy casualties Burgoyne, who lead the main British force surrendered on October 17, 1777. That American Victory ended the British threat to New England and destroyed British hopes for an easy victory. This convinced the Europeans that the Americans has a chance of winning.

1779

American ship Bonhomme Richard defeats British ship in naval battle. The American ship was under the command of John Paul Jones. The American Warship fought against a larger British warship named Serapis. The ships were in tatters but Commander Jones did not give up. After dozens of sailors dead on each side the captain of the Serapis surrendered.

1781

British troops surrender to Americans at Battle of Yorktown. The British forces headed to Virginia. By the Late summer only Charles Town and Savannah were under Britain's Control. Then Cornwallis moved his main army to Yorktown thinking the British Warships could reinforce the army. The French Fleet arrived off Yorktown and chased the British Warships Away. Soon Cornwallis and his army were trapped and had no choice but to surrender. This was the last major battle of the war.

1783

Britain recognizes American independence in Treaty of Paris. The British were eager for peace, so the Americans got what they wanted. The USA agreed to "earnestly recommend" that the states restore rights and property taken from the Loyalist during the war. However most of the states ignored this pledge. On April 15, 1783, Congress approved the treaty and the war was officially over. It was almost exactly eight years since the first shot was fired in Lexington.

Sources:

America: History of Our Nation Textbook