In 1776, Continental Congress issued the Declaration of Independence while George Washington led his Continental Army to defend New York City from a British attack.
Siege of Boston
April 19, 1775 - March 17, 1776
General Washington launched a successful attack in Boston which resulted in over 11,000 redcoats and hundreds of Loyalists fleeing the city.
Learn more
New York Campaign
August 1776 - November 1776
Because of New York City’s strategic location and status as an important port, the military campaign for New York had been in the minds of both the British and the Americans even prior to the Siege of Boston.
Learn more
The Winter Patriots
Following a series of defeats in New York, Washington led the Continental Army to crucial victories in the winter of 1776.
watch the video
Crossing the Delaware River
December 25, 1776
With the Continental Army threatening to dissolve around him, General George Washington led the remnants of his army across the icy Delaware River on Christmas night 1776.
Learn more
The Trenton-Princeton Campaign
December 1776 - January 1777
General George Washington led the remnants of his army to victory at the Battles of Second Trenton and Princeton, securing Washington's place as one of the greatest generals in world history.
Learn moreThe Revolutionary War
Washington's Revolutionary War Battles
While there were over 230 skirmishes and battles fought during the American Revolution. These are the battles where General Washington personally secured his legacy as "First in War."
The Declaration of Independence
The Continental Congress voted for independence on July 2, 1776. Two days later on July 4, a declaration explaining the reasons for independence, largely written by Thomas Jefferson, had also been adopted.
General Washington received official notification when a letter dated July 6 arrived from John Hancock, the president of the Continental Congress, along with a copy of the declaration to be read to the Continental Army on July 9.
John Trumbull's painting depicts the drafting committee presenting their document to members of Congress (Universal History Archive)
Primary Source: The Declaration of Independence
On July 2, 1776, Congress voted to dissolved the connection between "this country" and Great Britain, declaring the "United Colonies of North America" to be free and independent states. Read the full transcription of this revolutionary document.
Did George Washington Sign the Declaration of Independence?
The answer is no... but why not? Find out in this short video.