What event sparked the start of the American Revolution?

The battles of Lexington and Concord are often referred to as the opening engagements of the American Revolutionary War. These confrontations occurred on April 19, 1775, and they marked a turning point in the colonial struggle against British rule. The skirmishes represented the first instances of armed conflict between the American colonists and British troops, signifying that diplomatic efforts had failed and that war was now a reality.

The events at Lexington and Concord galvanized the colonial resistance movement, leading to increased unity among the colonies and ultimately setting the stage for a broader rebellion against British authority. The significance of these battles lies in their role as a catalyst for the revolution, transforming the desire for autonomy into armed resistance. While actions like the Boston Tea Party and the Intolerable Acts played crucial roles in escalating tensions prior to the outbreak of war, it was the fighting at Lexington and Concord that truly initiated open conflict, making it a pivotal moment in American history.