Founding Fathers timeline

  • The Boston Tea Party

    The Boston Tea Party was a massive political protest for American independence. The protesters gathered in Boston harbor and dumped 340 chests of tea into the harbor. This event lead up to the American Revolutionary War.
  • Battles of Lexington and Concord

    This date marked the start of the American Revolutionary War. British troops were sent to seize supplies in Concord when they met the colonists at Lexington. The British proceeded to Concord and the suffered heavy casualties at Concord against the colonies.
  • Declaration of Independence is signed

    This event marked the separation of the 13 colonies from the British Rule. This document was signed at the Independence Hall in Philadelphia. This is significant because it showed the the independence of the 13 colonies and they were now free to governor themselves how they pleased.
  • The Winter at Valley Forge

    This event is when 11,000 of Washington’s troops faced a very difficult winter. They had very little shelter and were running out of clothing. This event is significant because it showed that the colonist were a disciplined fighting force.
  • Articles of confederation ratified

    This event marked the independence of the newly formed United States. The last state to sign this document was Maryland. This is significant because it marked the separation of the United States from the British rule.
  • Battle of Yorktown

    During this battle the French and Americans joined forces against the British. This event is significant because it led to the surrender of the British General, General Cornwallis. This was one of the final battles of the American Revolutionary War.
  • Constitution is Ratified

    The Ratification of the Constitution replaced the Articles of Confederation. This was there current governing document of the United States. The Ratification created a stronger federal government. This event also let to the Bill of Rights.
  • Inauguration of George Washington

    This event took place in New York City. He was the very first person to become president. The oath of office was administered by Robert Livingston, the Chancellor of New York. This event is significant because it established order in the colonies.
  • Washington’s Farewell Address

    This event was the public announcement of Washington’s retirement from public service. This event is significant because it marks the ending of an era and the start of a new chapter.
  • Death of George Washington

    George Washington died on December 14th, 1799 at his home in Mount Vernon. He was 67 at the time. His death was very significant because American lost a highly respected leader. George Washington’s death also marked the end of an era.
  • Election of 1800

    During this election there was a tie between two democratic candidates Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr. After a second vote Jefferson had won.
  • Marbury vs Madison

    John Marshall who was Chief Justice established the principle of judicial review, asserting its power to declare acts of Congress unconstitutional. This is a significant event because it established a powerful court system.