Up Next
Back to Show
The American Revolution
The Declaration of Independence & Birth of the United States
Thomas Jefferson is tasked with writing a first draft of what will become the Declaration of Independence. In it, Jefferson writes that all men are created equal with inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. While proclaiming that all men are created equal is a revolutionary idea, it does not extend to Native Americans, women, or African Americans.
Support Provided By
2:10:41
Victory at Yorktown secures independence. Americans aspire for a more perfect union.
1:53:53
The war drags on and moves to new theaters: at sea, in Indian Country, and in the South.
1:55:38
Philadelphia falls, but the American victory at Saratoga allows France to enter the war.
1:54:35
Washington abandons New York City and flees across New Jersey, before attacking Trenton.
2:04:18
Washington takes command of the Continental Army. Congress declares American independence.
1:56:09
Political protest escalates into violence. War gives thirteen colonies a common cause.