After the colonies declared independence from Great Britain in July 1776, the war for freedom was unavoidable. The British, with a superior navy, larger population, and world empire, seemed to have all of the advantages. But the colonists were fighting for their freedom on their own ground. They were determined to win.

Battles were fought in every region of the colonies. The colonists' victory at Saratoga was a turning point in the war. Not only did it boost American spirits—it also convinced France to support the American cause. The financial and military aid of France, and, later, of Spain, was crucial to the war effort.

General Washington and his French allies eventually were able to surround the British general, Lord Charles Cornwallis, and his troops at Yorktown, Virginia. On October 19, 1781, the British surrendered. The peace treaty was signed in 1783 and the United States was recognized as a free and independent nation.