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
Phillis Wheatley’s Poem on Tyranny and Slavery, 1772
An eloquent condemnation of oppression and slavery, written for the British secretary of state for the colonies, showcasing Wheatley’s literary talent, and advocacy for freedom
Key Document
Boston Tea Party, 1773
Colonial tax protest in which American patriots dumped British tea into Boston Harbor
Event
Battle of Yorktown, 1781
A decisive victory of American and French forces that led to British surrender and American independence
Event
James Madison’s Memorial and Remonstrance against Religious Assessments, 1785
An argument against state-sponsored religion, defending religious freedom and the separation of church and state
Key Document
Bill of Rights, 1791
The first ten amendments to the United States Constitution—hard-fought additions that protect some individual liberties and limit government power
Key Document
Richard Allen
Prominent Philadelphia advocate for abolition and civil rights and founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church
Person
Lemuel Haynes
African American clergyman and Revolutionary War veteran known for his writings on racial equality
Person
Absalom Jones
Abolitionist, religious leader, and founder of the first Black Episcopal church in the United States
Person
James Madison
Fourth President of the United States known as the “Father of the Constitution”
Person
Dolley Madison
The influential First Lady who saved the portrait of George Washington during the War of 1812
Person
Samson Occom
Mohegan clergyman, writer, and orator who was a key figure in Native American rights and education
Person