Colonial Period and Independence

What to know

The thirteen American colonies declared independence from Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence, written mainly by Thomas Jefferson, was adopted on July 4, 1776. The war for independence is called the American Revolution, or the Revolutionary War.

The first plan of government after independence was the Articles of Confederation. It left the national government too weak, so delegates met in Philadelphia and wrote the Constitution, which was signed in 1787. James Madison is often called the “Father of the Constitution.”

George Washington led the Continental Army during the Revolution and became the first President of the United States.

Key facts to remember

• The colonies declared independence from Great Britain.
• The Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776.
• Thomas Jefferson was its main writer.
• The Articles of Confederation came first; the Constitution was signed in 1787.
• James Madison: “Father of the Constitution.”
• George Washington was the first President.

Read the official study materials

This summary is our own and doesn’t replace the official guide. Read “Colonial Period and Independence” in the USCIS study materials on uscis.gov, then test yourself below. Next topic: The 1800s.