Back to Show
The American Revolution
How Land, Taxes and Rebellion Sparked the American Revolution
To reduce debt suffered from the Seven Years' War, Britain levies several new taxes on American colonists. Unrest grows as colonists fear that giving into these new taxes will open the floodgates to even harsher taxes. Whipped up by pamphleteers and influential figures like Samuel Adams and Patrick Henry, mobs of American colonists take to the streets to intimidate tax collectors and troops.
Support Provided By
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:10:41
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:53:53
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:55:38
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:54:35
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
Unlock with PBS Passport
2:04:18
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
Unlock with PBS Passport
1:56:09
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.