American War of Independence

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American War of Independence: Outbreak

In 1775, political and economic concerns led the inhabitants of Britain’s 13 American colonies to rise up in revolt. The subsequent conflict divided families and communities across North America.

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Destruction of the Floating Batteries, Gibraltar, 14 September 1782

This painting by George Carter captures a pivotal moment in the Siege of Gibraltar, a contest for control of this strategic Mediterranean base during the American War of Independence.

The death of Major Pierson and the defeat of the French attack on Jersey, 1781

American War of Independence: Key battles

In 1775, Britain’s American colonies rebelled in a bid for independence. The British Army performed fairly well against the rebels, but it was unable to prevent the loss of territory following French and Spanish entry into the war.

American War of Independence: Outbreak

In 1775, political and economic concerns led the inhabitants of Britain’s 13 American colonies to rise up in revolt. The subsequent conflict divided families and communities across North America.

With friends like these: The Americans

In this video, we look at how changing national interests have affected Britain's military relationship with the United States from the 18th century to the present day.

Battles of Lexington and Concord

The Battles of Lexington and Concord on 19 April 1775, the famous ‘shot heard ‘round the world’, marked the start of the American War of Independence.

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Discussion

19 Apr 2025 FREE

Was the American War of Independence a Civil War?

Join Dr Eamonn O’Keeffe as he invites an online panel of experts to explore issues of identity, patriotism and loyalty on the road to revolution.

Talk

25 Apr 2025 FREE

Patriot Resistance on the Path to Revolution

Hear from Dr Megan King as she recounts the decade leading up to the American War of Independence, as ideological resistance became the first battleground.

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9 May 2025 FREE

Learning to Adapt: The British Army in the American War of Independence

Join Dr Matthew Spring as he examines how the British Army approached the American War of Independence.

Study for the oil painting, 'The Battle of Lexington 1775'

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23 May 2025 FREE

British Successes in the American War of Independence

Join Professor Stephen Conway to discuss the successes of the American War of Independence from the perspective of the British Army.