Lakhasly

In May 1775, the American Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and began to act as an American national government.It set up an army under the command of George Washington; a Virginia landowner and experienced military leader.The Continental Congress also sent representatives to seek help from European countries, mainly France; Britain's old enemy.Two days later, the Declaration of Independence was issued.

In May 1775, the American Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and began to act as
an American national government. It set up an army under the command of George
Washington; a Virginia landowner and experienced military leader. The Continental Congress
also sent representatives to seek help from European countries, mainly France; Britain’s old
enemy. By 1776, the fighting spread all over the country and turned from riots to a full-scale
war.
On July 02nd, 1776, the Continental Congress caught all political relations with Britain and
declared that the American colonies are, and had the right to be free. Two days later, the
Declaration of Independence was issued. It was written by Thomas Jefferson and it was the
most important document in American history. It stated that the colonies are now free and
independent states, and called them “The United States of America”.
The Declaration of Independence stated that all men had a natural right to “life, liberty and
the pursuit of happiness”. It also claimed that governments had the right to rule only if they
get the agreement of their people. This principle became known as “the consent of the
governed”. This document set the principles of American political life.
At the beginning of the war, the American colonies were close to lose. Yet, success began
in 1777 when the Continental Army could defeat a large British force and oblige its
commander to surrender. After this victory, Benjamin Franklin convinced the French
government to join the struggle. French forces, ships and money were soon playing a vital
role in the war.
After several battles, the British started to withdraw their forces from America and their
representatives started discussing peace terms. In the Treaty of Paris which was signed in
1783, Britain officially recognized its former colonies as an independent nation. George
Washington was elected as the first president of the USA and the American Constitution was
issued to establish the principles of democracy in the country.
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