The American Revolution, which took place between 1775 and 1783, was a pivotal

event in world history that marked the thirteen American colonies' struggle for
independence from British rule. Tensions between the colonies and the British
government had been escalating for years due to issues such as taxation without
representation, increased control over colonial affairs, and disputes over colonial
rights.

The revolution began in April 1775 with the Battles of Lexington and Concord, where
American colonists clashed with British troops. As hostilities grew, a Continental
Congress was convened, leading to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence
in 1776, a document eloquently outlining the colonies' grievances and their decision
to break away from British rule. The war itself saw battles across North America,
including the famous Siege of Yorktown in 1781, which ultimately led to the
surrender of British forces and paved the way for negotiations that ended the
conflict.

The Treaty of Paris in 1783 formally recognized the independence of the United
States, establishing its borders and granting it sovereignty. The revolution's success
had far-reaching effects, inspiring other movements for self-determination and
shaping the principles of democracy, individual rights, and limited government that
are central to American identity. Key figures in the American Revolution include
George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams, who
played instrumental roles in guiding the colonies to victory and laying the foundation
for the new nation.