The American Revolution and War of Independence

In short: The American Revolution, between 1775 and 1783, led to the separation of the thirteen British colonies in North America from the British crown. It ended with the founding of the United States as an independent nation.

In more detail: High taxes imposed without political representation of the colonists in the British parliament were among the central triggers of the conflict.

In detail

• Tax conflicts: Laws like the Stamp Act and Tea Act angered the colonists, who were taxed without representation in parliament.
• Declaration of Independence: On July 4, 1776, the colonies officially declared their independence from Great Britain.
• Course of the war: George Washington led the Continental Army against the numerically superior British troops.
• French support: France supported the colonists with money, weapons, and troops, which decisively contributed to their success.
• Treaty of Paris: The peace treaty signed in 1783 officially recognized the independence of the United States.
• Constitution: The US Constitution, drafted in 1787, created a federal system with separation of powers that still applies today.
• Global impact: The American Revolution inspired later revolutions, including the French Revolution (aufklaerung-und-franzoesische-revolution).