When was the American Revolution? Revolution as fundamental transformation in power relations. As historians, looking back, we can identify that a such a revolution took place which resulted in the creation of the United States. Question tonight: is it possible to identify “when was the American Revolution?”, while keeping in mind that the people who lived through these changes did not, unlike historians, have advantage of knowing the end result. Series of pivotal moments – but can we say when Revolution began, or indeed ended?

British North America at the end of the Seven Years War (1756-1763)

“No taxation without representation” The Stamp Act, 1765 “No taxation without representation”

Aftermath Repeal of the Stamp Act, 1766 Passage of the Declaratory Act, 1766 Imposition of the Townshend Duties, 1767

The Boston Massacre, 1770

Trial of 8 soldiers and Capt. Preston Aftermath Trial of 8 soldiers and Capt. Preston 5 March - “Massacre Day” British troops removed from Boston, but not elsewhere 6

The Boston Tea Party, 1773

Aftermath The Intolerable Acts, 1774 The battles of Lexington and Concord, 9 April 1775

Independence? Olive Branch Petition, 1775 Declaration of Independence, 1776 Seven more years of fighting before peace

“What do we mean by the American Revolution “What do we mean by the American Revolution? Do we mean the American war? The Revolution was effected before the war commenced. The Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the people; .... This radical change in the principles, opinions, sentiments, and affections of the people, was the real American Revolution.” John Adams (1818)

BEGINS 1763… or earlier? ENDS 1783… or later?