The Start of the War: Lexington and Concord
In Grade 8 US history, students learn about the start of the American Revolutionary War at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775. British troops marched to seize colonial weapons at Concord, but colonial minutemen blocked them at Lexington. After the first shots were fired at Lexington, the fighting spread to Concord, where colonists inflicted heavy casualties on the retreating British. This is covered in History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 2.
Key Concepts
After the First Continental Congress, tensions were high. On April 19, 1775, British troops marched to seize colonial weapons stored at Concord. Warned by riders, colonial minutemen—militia ready to fight at a moment's notice—confronted the British at Lexington, where the first shots were fired.
The fighting at Lexington and Concord became the first battle of the American Revolution. In response, colonial leaders met and decided to form a unified army to face the British. This new force was called the Continental Army , and George Washington was chosen to lead it.
Common Questions
How did the Revolutionary War start at Lexington and Concord?
On April 19, 1775, British troops marched to seize weapons stored in Concord. Colonial minutemen confronted them at Lexington, where shots were fired. At Concord's North Bridge, colonists fought back, and British troops retreated to Boston under heavy fire.
Who were the minutemen at Lexington and Concord?
Minutemen were colonial militia volunteers trained to respond at a moment's notice. They gathered to block the British march after being warned by riders including Paul Revere.
What happened at Concord after the fighting at Lexington?
At Concord, the colonists had hidden or removed most of the weapons. When British troops tried to cross the North Bridge, colonial militia exchanged fire and the British began a disorganized retreat back to Boston.
Which textbook covers the start of the Revolution at Lexington and Concord in Grade 8?
History Alive! The United States Through Industrialism, Chapter 2: Revolution in the Colonies, covers the start of the Revolutionary War at Lexington and Concord.
Why is April 19, 1775 important in US history?
April 19, 1775 marks the first military engagement of the American Revolution. The shots fired at Lexington and the fight at Concord's North Bridge began the armed struggle for American independence.