1775

Definition

The year 1775 marks a critical turning point in American history, particularly in the context of rising tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain. It was during this year that significant events unfolded, including the outbreak of armed conflict at the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which signified the start of the American Revolutionary War. These developments fueled the movement towards independence and set the stage for the eventual drafting of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, were sparked by British attempts to seize colonial military supplies, leading to the first shots fired in the Revolutionary War.
2. The phrase 'the shot heard 'round the world' refers to these battles, symbolizing the beginning of open conflict between Britain and its American colonies.
3. Following these events, the Second Continental Congress convened in May 1775, where colonial leaders began organizing resistance against British rule.
4. George Washington was appointed as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army by the Second Continental Congress in June 1775.
5. Throughout 1775, tensions escalated, resulting in growing support for independence among colonists, paving the way for future declarations and revolutionary action.

Review Questions

• How did the events of 1775 contribute to the growing sentiment for independence among American colonists?
  • The events of 1775, particularly the Battles of Lexington and Concord, played a significant role in escalating tensions between the colonies and Britain. These confrontations marked a shift from political protests to armed resistance, uniting colonists against what they perceived as oppressive British rule. As news of these events spread, support for independence grew stronger, leading many to consider breaking away from Britain entirely.
• Analyze how the formation of the Continental Army in June 1775 influenced military strategy during the early years of the Revolutionary War.
  • The establishment of the Continental Army provided a unified military force for the colonies, allowing them to coordinate their efforts against British troops more effectively. With George Washington appointed as commander-in-chief, strategic leadership emerged that focused on using guerilla tactics and avoiding large-scale confrontations. This adaptability helped maintain colonial morale and prolonged resistance against a well-trained British army during the early phases of the war.
• Evaluate the significance of 1775 in shaping future political developments leading to the Declaration of Independence.
  • The year 1775 was pivotal in shaping future political developments leading to the Declaration of Independence as it marked a definitive break from diplomatic negotiations to active military engagement. The successful resistance at Lexington and Concord catalyzed a broader revolutionary spirit among colonists and underscored their willingness to fight for their rights. This shift laid crucial groundwork for subsequent debates and decisions within the Second Continental Congress that culminated in declaring independence from Britain in 1776.

Related terms

Lexington and Concord: The first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War, occurring on April 19, 1775, marking the outbreak of armed conflict between Britain and its American colonies.

Second Continental Congress: A convention of delegates from the thirteen colonies that met in May 1775, which ultimately led to the decision to declare independence from Britain in 1776.

Continental Army: The army established by the Second Continental Congress in June 1775 to fight against British forces during the American Revolutionary War.