Independence Timeline

Independence Timeline

1765-1773The British Parliament bypasses colonial assemblies and imposes several internal and external taxes on the outraged colonists.

Dec. 16, 1773The colonial response to taxation without representation culminates in the Boston Tea Party. The Sons of Liberty dump 342 chests of tea into Boston harbor.

Sept. 5, 1774Delegates begin meeting for the First Continental Congress and agree to send grievances to King George III.

April 19, 1775Armed conflict between the colonists and British redcoats begins in Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts.

May 10, 1775A Second Continental Congress begins meeting in Philadelphia.

June 11, 1776The Continental Congress appoints a five-man committee, including Thomas Jefferson, to draft a declaration of independence.

June 28, 1776The committee presents the declaration for debate and revision.

July 4, 1776 The Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence without dissent.