Continental Congress

The Continental Congress in Philadelphia was beginning the functions of sovereignty although each colony governed itself. In the spring of 1776, independence was not an imminent thought so much as was restoration of rights within the empire.

Boston

The story begins in this New England town where the Americans drove the British out. Many Americans believed that this was the end of the conflict with England.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia served as the country's capital at this time. The Continental Congress operated out of Philadelphia.

Manhattan

Several important battles were fought here. The rebel armies suffered several crushing defeats on this island. After the battle of Fort Washington at the northern tip of Manhattan, many believed that the cause was lost.

Staten Island

An island just south of Manhattan where the British and Hessian troops landed prior to the battles in Brooklyn and Long Island.

Long Island

The Battle...