Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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The Stamp Act, 1765
A tax on printed materials imposed by Britain on American colonies—sparking widespread protest and contributing to revolutionary sentiments
Key Document
Boston Tea Party, 1773
Colonial tax protest in which American patriots dumped British tea into Boston Harbor
Event
First Continental Congress, 1774
A gathering of American colonial delegates in Philadelphia to address grievances against British rule and advocate for colonial rights
Event
Declaration of the Causes and Necessity for Taking Up Arms, 1775
An address listing the colonists’ grievances and asserting the right to self-defense
Key Document
Olive Branch Petition, 1775
The Continental Congress’s last major attempt to avoid war with Great Britain
Key Document
Common Sense, 1776
Influential pamphlet by Thomas Paine advocating American independence from British rule and inspiring revolutionary sentiment
Key Document
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
Declaration of Independence, 1776
The founding document that asserted colonial autonomy, enumerated grievances, and set forth the ideals of a new nation
Key Document
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
Founding the New-York Manumission Society, 1785
Establishing an organization to advocate gradual abolition of slavery, educate free Black people, and prevent them from being sold into slavery
Event
Shays’ Rebellion, 1786
An armed uprising by indebted Massachusetts farmers protesting economic injustice and demanding debt relief
Event