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The American Revolution
"Common Sense" and the Birth of a New World
On January 9th, 1776, the pamphlet "Common Sense" is published in Philadelphia. The pamphlet immediately becomes a bestseller, selling tens of thousands of copies across America. In "Common Sense," Thomas Paine, the author and violent foe of aristocracy and monarchy, attacks the King and Parliament and offers Americans an alternative to British rule: true independence.
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2:10:41
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
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1:53:53
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
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1:55:38
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
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1:54:35
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
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2:04:18
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
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1:56:09
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.