Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
Explore our Resources
Filter by person, event, document, and theme.
Mercy Otis Warren on American Resistance, 1774
Letter commending American resistance to British abuses but expressing concern over potential violence
Supporting Document
First Continental Congress, 1774
A gathering of American colonial delegates in Philadelphia to address grievances against British rule and advocate for colonial rights
Event
An Address to the People of Great Britain, 1774
A colonial plea to people in Great Britain for support and empathy in the face of growing tensions
Supporting Document
Declaration and Resolves of the First Continental Congress, 1774
Document outlining grievances against British policies and asserting colonial rights—laying the groundwork for American resistance and revolution
Supporting Document
Paul Revere’s “A Certain Cabinet Junto,” 1775
A political cartoon depicting King George III and advisors discussing colonial unrest while Lady Liberty waits
Supporting Document
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
Phillis Wheatley’s Poem to His Excellency General Washington, 1775
A tribute to Washington’s leadership and the American cause that highlighted Wheatley’s literary prowess and support for independence
Supporting Document
Proclamation of Rebellion, August 23, 1775
George III’s declaration that the colonies were in “open rebellion” against the mother country
Supporting Document
The Farmer Refuted, 1775
A defense of American colonial rights against British tyranny secretly written by Alexander Hamilton—fueling revolutionary sentiment
Supporting Document
Olive Branch Petition, 1775
The Continental Congress’s last major attempt to avoid war with Great Britain
Key Document
Patrick Henry’s Speech to Second Virginia Convention, 1775
An impassioned call to arms, advocating for colonial resistance against British oppression, and famously declaring, "Give me liberty or give me death!"
Key Document
The Farmer Refuted, 1775
A defense of American colonial rights against British tyranny secretly written by Alexander Hamilton—fueling revolutionary sentiment
Key Document