Revolution Then and Now: A Path to Independence

A Path to Independence

Mina and her grandfather visit the Eastfield History Center to see an exhibit called “Then and Now.” The first part explains that, by 1775, thirteen British colonies were located along the Atlantic coast of North America. Many colonists disagreed with British policies, but others remained loyal to Britain. The colonies did not begin as one united country. Their path to independence took several years and included battles, political decisions and help from another country.

In April 1775, fighting at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts began the Revolutionary War. Soon afterward, the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia. Congress chose George Washington to lead the Continental Army. The army faced a powerful British military, and the fighting continued even after the colonies made an important political decision.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson was its principal drafter, and other delegates helped revise the document. The Declaration announced that the colonies considered themselves free and independent states and explained their reasons. It did not end the war. Soldiers continued to fight for the independence the document declared.

A major turning point came in October 1777, when American forces won at Saratoga. This victory helped persuade France to ally with the Americans in 1778. France provided money, supplies, soldiers and ships. In 1781, George Washington's army and French troops surrounded the British army led by General Charles Cornwallis at Yorktown. A French fleet blocked the British from escaping by sea, and Cornwallis surrendered. Fighting and negotiations continued in some places, but the Treaty of Paris in 1783 formally recognized the independence of the United States.

The exhibit's “Now” cards help visitors compare that time with today. During the Revolution, news often traveled by rider or ship, so people could wait days or weeks for information. Today, students can quickly read printed copies or digital scans of the Declaration in a museum or classroom. Then, the colonies were under British rule; now, the United States is an independent country. The exhibit also reminds visitors that people did not all choose the same side. Some colonists stayed loyal to Britain, and Native nations, such as the Oneida and the Mohawk, made their own decisions about the war.