This day in history, April 19th, 1775, marks the start of the American Revolutionary War, in which colonists of what is now the United States sought their freedom and independence from Great Britain. Due to long-standing conflicts over issues such as colonial taxation without representation and the more general right for colonial self-governance, British soldiers were sent to confiscate colonial weapons. Tensions rose until the symbolic shot, at the balttles of Lexington and Concord, known as the “shot heard round the world,” was fired on that day in April, marking the official start of the war. As a result, the American colonies banded together, with ordinary citizens becoming patriots, seeking liberty and independence. After a long eight years, the American colonies proved triumphant in securing their political independence and went on to form the United States of America.
Challenge your knowledge of the American Revolution with The American Revolution quiz!
Interested in learning more? Explore the following resources from the library:
Books
Sensibility and the American Revolution tells the story of a generation of American and British activists who transformed humanitarianism as they adjusted to being foreigners in the wake of the American Revolution.
Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763-1789 recreates the tumultuous events of the 1760s and 1770s that led to revolution, such as the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party, as well as the role the Sons of Liberty played in turning resistance into full-scale revolt.
From Empire to Humanity: The American Revolution and the Origins of Humanitarianism tells the story of a generation of American and British activists who transformed humanitarianism as they adjusted to being foreigners in the wake of the American Revolution.
Explore the library for more books on the American Revolutionary War.
Videos
In The American Revolution, Season 3 of "10 Things You Don't Know About,” punk rock icon Henry Rollins uncovers crazy twists and tidbits behind the historical tales, figures, and places you only thought you knew.
Did you know that during the American Revolutionary War some American women disguised themselves as men in order to join the fight? Women Of The American Revolution: The Real Unsung Heroes recounts how women played a critical role both on the homefront and on the battlefield.
In Who Won the American Revolution, John Green will teach you about the major battles of the Revolutionary War, discuss the strategies on both sides, and explore what the revolution meant to the common people in the United States.
Why stop at three? We have more videos covering all aspects of the American Revolutionary War.
Carrie Woodhouse is the library's project manager and oversees many of the library's day-to-day processes. She enjoys taking walks and regularly visits a murder of crows in her neighborhood, who now recognize her when she's out and about.