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The American Revolution
Dunmore's Proclamation & Black Americans in the Revolution
Forty percent of white Virginians owned enslaved people, and farmers like George Washington lived in fear of a revolt. These fears come to reality when Virginia's royal governor, Lord Dunmore, issues a proclamation offering freedom to any enslaved individual who joins his fight against their Patriot masters. Some 800 men would join Dunmore, including some of George Washington's own slaves.
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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.