The Beginner’s Guide to the American Revolutionary War

A brief summary of the origins of the war and its impact

The Declaration of Independence by John Trumbull (painted 1818)

The American Revolutionary War, also known as the American War of Independence, saw the revolt of the American colonies against British rule.

Between 1775 to 1783, roughly 6,800 American soldiers were killed in the fight for independence. An estimated 17,000 soldiers died as the result of disease while in imprisonment.

Let’s take a brief look at some of the aspects of the war:

• Causes: The war was primarily driven by the American colonies’ desire for independence from British rule. Grievances included taxation without representation, British attempts to impose greater control, and colonial aspirations for self-determination.
• Key Events: The conflict began with events like the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. The American colonists formed the Continental Army under the leadership of George Washington. Major battles, such as Saratoga (1777) and Yorktown (1781), played significant roles in the outcome.
• Allies: The American colonies received support from France, Spain, and the Netherlands, which contributed troops, funds, and naval power to the American cause.
• Treaty of Paris: The war officially ended…