Timeline of the American Revolution/Prelude

by the Valley Forge National Historical Park division, United States National Park Service

Prelude
Early Americans had made the risky Atlantic crossing seeking a better life, adventure, religious freedom and political autonomy. They built a society in the New World and for generations ran it with little outside meddling. After the French and Indian War, Britain initiated policies aimed at bringing the colonists under closer control. Tensions grew. Many Americans stood firm in their belief that the King had suspended their natural rights. Increasingly, resistance leaders banded together. The stage for the Revolution was set.

February 10, 1763
The Treaty of Paris ends Seven Year’s War (French and Indian War). Left in debt from war, Great Britain looks to colonies for revenue.

October 7, 1763
Proclamation of 1763 bars settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains.

April 5, 1764
Sugar Act imposes stricter trade regulation and duties on sugar and molasses.

March 22, 1765
Stamp Act places tax on printed matter and legal documents.

June 29, 1767
Townshend Revenue Acts create new import duties for the colonists.

October 1768
British soldiers arrive in Boston to enforce compliance with new regulations.

March 5, 1770
“Boston Massacre.” King's troops kill five civilians before British back off and troops leave Boston. All Townshend duties removed except for tax on tea.

December 16, 1773
Chests of tea destroyed in protest at Boston “Tea Party.”

March-June 1774
Coercive Acts close port of Boston, bring Massachusetts’s government under crown control, and allow for quartering of British troops on private property.

September-October 1774
First Continental Congress meets in Philadelphia and approves collective strategy to deal with Coercive Acts. Declare common grievances and adopt comprehensive boycotts of British goods.

October 1774
“Minute Man” companies formed.