American revolution Timeline

Lexington & Concord

Apr 19, 1775

The first military clashes between colonial militia and British regulars. These skirmishes (“the shot heard round the world”) Important because it triggered open warfare and rallied colonists to armed resistance.
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Siege of Boston March 17, 1776

Period: Apr 19, 1775 to Mar 17, 1776

After Lexington/Concord colonists besieged the British in Boston. The arrival of Henry Knox with captured artillery from Fort Ticonderoga and their placement on Dorchester Heights forced the British to evacuate Boston Important because this was a early strategic Patriot success
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Battle of Bunker Hill

Jun 17, 1775

A technically British victory but with heavy British losses; demonstrated colonial willingness to stand in pitched battle and proved the Continental cause could inflict serious casualties. (Famous for the order “don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes”. This is important because it shows militia discipline under pressure.
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Battle of Long Island (Brooklyn)

Aug 27, 1776

Large British victory in New York that forced Washington to retreat from Long Island and eventually from New York City. Important because it shows early war setbacks for the Continental Army and the risks Washington faced.