Early United States history spans from the American Revolution to the Reconstruction Era. This period saw several pivotal events that shaped the country in its current form, from Thomas Jefferson’s famous declaration of independence to the Civil War and its aftermath. From land acquisition to wars and treaties, this era was a time of incredible change in America.

The American Revolutionary War took place between 1775-1783 and resulted in the Declaration of Independence on July 4th 1776. The war began as a result of increasing tension between Britain and its colonies over taxation policies such as the Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, Tea Acts and other measures implemented by Parliament. Colonists called for “No taxation without representation” while British authorities said they had an undeniable right to tax their subjects overseas. Eventually, this led to armed conflict which culminated in an independent United States of America when France and Spain joined forces with the colonists against Britain during the last stages of war.