Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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Boston Massacre, 1770
A “massacre” of civilians in Boston by British troops fueled colonial resentment of British rule
Event
Battles of Lexington and Concord, 1775
The first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War in 1775—marked by confrontations between colonial militia and British troops
Event
New York and New Jersey Campaigns, 1776
A series of Revolutionary War military actions in which British forces gained control over New York and New Jersey
Event
Winter at Valley Forge, 1777–1778
The Continental Army faced extreme hardships at Valley Forge during the harsh winter of 1777–1778—strengthening their resilience and unity
Event
Battle of Yorktown, 1781
A decisive victory of American and French forces that led to British surrender and American independence
Event
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, 1789
Autobiography detailing Olaudah Equiano’s enslavement, his journey to freedom, and fight against the slave trade
Key Document
Hamilton-Burr Duel, 1804
A fatal confrontation between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr that stemmed from political and personal animosities and shaped American political history
Event
John Adams
A leading proponent of independence, a congressman, a diplomat, and the second President of the United States
Person
Theodosia Burr Alston
Daughter of Aaron Burr and prominent figure in early American society who disappeared at sea in 1813
Person
Aaron Burr
Complex and controversial early American politician known for his fatal duel with Alexander Hamilton
Person
Angelica Schuyler Church
The charming, intelligent, politically active oldest daughter of Philip Schuyler and sister of Elizabeth Hamilton
Person