After tensions had increased over British economic and political control in the American colonies, revolution finally broke out. The American War of Independence finally led to the loss of the colonies.

The American War of Independence was fought between 1776 and 1783.

Although the British sent soldiers to restore order in the colonies, and crush the rebels, they were faced with great resistance. These are some of the key events.

• ❖ The Americans made George Washington their general. He would later become their first President.
• ❖ On 4th July, 1776, Congress met to declare themselves independent from Britain. This is why the USA celebrates Independence Day on 4th July every year.
• ❖ Fighting continued until 1783. The rebels received support from the French, and their use of guerrilla tactics made it difficult for the British to defeat them.
• ❖ The British used German mercenaries. This alienated the colonists further, as the British were using foreigners to fight against their own people.
• ❖ In 1781, the British general, Lord Cornwallis, was forced to surrender at Yorktown. This was a humiliating defeat for the British.
• ❖ On the 3rd September, 1783, the Treaty of Paris formally ended the war, and America was declared independent.