Lesson 2: The Declaration of Independence

Key Idea

After the First Continental Congress, tensions were high. On April 19, 1775, British troops marched to seize colonial weapons stored at Concord. Warned by riders, colonial minutemen—militia ready to fight at a moment's notice—confronted the British at Lexington, where the first shots were fired.

The fighting at Lexington and Concord became the first battle of the American Revolution. In response, colonial leaders met and decided to form a unified army to face the British. This new force was called the Continental Army, and George Washington was chosen to lead it.

Key Idea

Even after the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord, most American colonists were not ready to break away from Great Britain. The Second Continental Congress met in May 1775, hoping to find a peaceful end to the conflict.

As a final attempt at reconciliation, the delegates sent the Olive Branch Petition to King George III. This letter affirmed the colonists' loyalty to the king but blamed Parliament and his ministers for the crisis. It asked the king to protect their rights and restore harmony. This action shows that the idea of complete independence was still a radical one for most Americans.

Key Idea

Even after fighting began, many colonists still hoped for peace. But King George III refused to compromise. He accused colonial leaders of treason, ordered a naval blockade of American ports, and even had the Royal Navy burn a coastal town.

To crush the rebellion, the king also hired thousands of German mercenaries to fight against the colonists. These harsh actions destroyed any hope for a peaceful solution. By 1776, many Americans were convinced that Britain saw them as rebels to be defeated, not subjects to be heard.

Key Idea

After the first battles of the war, many colonists were still unsure about leaving Great Britain. While angry at British policies, the idea of complete independence was a radical and frightening step for most.

In January 1776, writer Thomas Paine published a powerful pamphlet called Common Sense. He used simple language to argue that it was illogical for a king thousands of miles away to rule the colonies. He urged Americans to break away and create a new, free society.