01
CONTESTO STORICOHistorical introduction
American independence grew from imperial disputes and political mobilization into a war fought across communities and alliances. Do not confuse the declaration in 1776 with military victory in 1781 or diplomatic settlement in 1783, and remember that liberty was not distributed equally.
02
CONTESTO STORICOProtest and the rupture with Britain · 1765–1776
Tax protests, political organization and the outbreak of fighting brought the thirteen colonies toward a public break with British rule.
05
CONTESTO STORICOCampaigns and the struggle for victory · 1776–1781
The American cause experienced setbacks as well as victories. Washington’s winter operations and intelligence helped sustain a conflict decided through more than a single battle.