History Matters

When the Continental Congress decided in June 1776 that the American colonies should become independent from Great Britain, the delegates faced an important task: explaining to the world why they were breaking away from the British Empire. To do that, Congress appointed a committee to prepare a formal declaration. The […]

As June of 1776 unfolded, Americans were moving steadily toward independence. While delegates in Philadelphia debated whether to separate from Great Britain, British military leaders were preparing a major campaign to crush the rebellion in the South. Their target was Charleston, South Carolina, one of the most important ports in […]

When most people think about the American Revolution, they think of famous men such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams. However, one of the most influential voices of the Revolutionary era belonged to a woman who never held public office. Abigail Adams was the wife of John Adams, […]

June 1776 was one of the most important months in American history. The thirteen colonies were moving steadily toward a final break with Great Britain. Years of political disputes, protests, boycotts, and armed conflict had convinced many Americans that reconciliation with the Crown was no longer possible. On June 7, […]

Why didn’t Canada become the 14th Colony? Why didn’t the people of Canada join the thirteen colonies in rebellion against the British Crown? The answer is complex, with several important reasons behind it. In 1776, Canada was not a single unified nation. Different regions had different loyalties and interests. Nova […]

In June 1775, the English Royal Governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, slipped out of Williamsburg under the cover of darkness. He was rowed to a British naval vessel anchored in the York River. From there, he continued acting as Royal Governor from afar, supporting the King and Parliament while Virginia […]