Few years in U.S. history were more momentous than 1776. The Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence and named the new country the United States of America. As the Revolutionary War raged, General George Washington crossed the Delaware River in a successful surprise attack on British-funded mercenaries. The British hanged 21-year-old spy Nathan Hale. And the first working combat submarine (a one-man vessel called the “Turtle”) attacked a British ship in New York Harbor by attaching a powder keg to its hull.
Jan
02
Jan
10
On January 10, 1776, writer Thomas Paine publishes his pamphlet “Common Sense,” setting forth his arguments in favor of American independence. Although little used today, pamphlets were an important medium for the spread of ideas in the 16th through 19th centuries.
Title page from Thomas Payne’s Common Sense pamphlet
VCG Wilson/Corbis via Getty Images
Jan
25
Mar
17
Apr
03
Jun
07
Jun
15
Jul
02
Jul
04
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, which proclaims the independence of the United States of America from Great Britain and its king.
The American Declaration of Independence adopted by the Continental Congress in Philadelphia with the future 1st President of the United States of America, George Washington present. Original Artwork: Engraving after a painting by John Trumbull. (Photo by Rischgitz/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Aug
02
Aug
10
Aug
22
Aug
27
Sep
09
Sep
22
Nov
16
Dec
13
Dec
25
During the American Revolution, Patriot General George Washington crosses the Delaware River with 5,400 troops, hoping to surprise a Hessian force celebrating Christmas at their winter quarters in Trenton, New Jersey. The unconventional attack came after several months of substantial defeats for Washington’s army that had resulted in the loss of New York City and other strategic points in the region.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of John Stewart Kennedy, 1897
Uncover fascinating moments from the past every day! Learn something new with key events in history, from the American Revolution to pop culture, crime and more.
By submitting your information, you agree to receive emails from HISTORY and A+E Global Media. You can opt out at any time. You must be 16 years or older and a resident of the United States.
More details: Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Contact Us