America’s 250th
1776
It was not inevitable. It was a year of fear, argument, courage, retreat, risk, and resolve.
The Year That Made a Nation
In January 1776, independence was still a radical idea held by a minority. By December, a battered Continental Army was fighting for its survival in the frozen fields of New Jersey. Between those months, thirteen colonies declared themselves a nation, put that declaration on paper, and began paying for it in blood.
Every date, quote, and fact below links to a primary source: the original documents held at the National Archives, the Library of Congress, and Founders Online.
Common Sense Published
Thomas Paine's pamphlet "Common Sense" was published in Philadelphia, arguing plainly for independence from Britain. It sold roughly 100,000 copies in its first three months and shifted public opinion decisively toward separation.
British Evacuation of Boston
After George Washington's forces placed artillery on Dorchester Heights, General Howe evacuated British troops and loyalists from Boston by sea, ending the eleven-month Siege of Boston.
Lee Resolution Introduced
Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduced a resolution in the Continental Congress declaring "that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States." Congress postponed the vote to allow reluctant delegations time to receive new instructions.
Independence Voted
The Continental Congress voted to approve the Lee Resolution, with twelve colonies voting in favor and New York abstaining. John Adams wrote to Abigail that July 2nd would be "the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America."
Declaration of Independence Adopted
Congress adopted the final text of the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, with edits by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams. The document set forth the reasons for separation and affirmed that governments derive "their just powers from the consent of the governed."
Battle of Long Island
The British forces under General Howe defeated Washington's Continental Army in the largest battle of the entire war. Washington managed a nighttime retreat across the East River, saving the army from capture.
Crossing of the Delaware
On Christmas night, Washington led 2,400 soldiers across the ice-choked Delaware River and attacked the Hessian garrison at Trenton, New Jersey. The surprise victory captured nearly 1,000 prisoners and revived the collapsing morale of the Revolution.
1776 – 2026
Two hundred and fifty years since thirteen colonies became the United States of America.