After Lexington and Concord, representatives of the colonies tried, without success, to find a peaceful solution to the conflict with Britain. In 1776, as the fighting spread, they called for separation from Britain. With the bold words of the Declaration of Independence, the United States became a nation.

The Americans now fought a life-and-death struggle for liberty. From New England, the major operations of the war gradually spread to the Middle States and the South. With help from France and other nations, the Americans defeated the British and won their war for independence.

Additional Activities

• "Why Study History?" Activity: Have students use the Internet to find reasons for, and ways to celebrate, patriotism. (See Teacher's Edition, page 167.)
  
  
• Check out the Student Internet Activities, which focus on Revolutionary espionage and Valley Forge.
  
  

Section 1: Early Battles

Section 2: Declaring Independence

Section 3: Fighting in the Middle States

Section 4: Other Battlefronts

Section 5: Winning the War