“Give me liberty, or give me death!” is one of the main slogans of the American Revolution. Back then, in 1775, at the Virginia Convention, delegate Patrick Henry proclaimed his readiness to die for the ideals of freedom.

Another slogan of the American Revolution is “No taxation without representation!” This symbolic phrase expressed a protest against the measures of the mother country, as the British Crown taxed the colonies without granting them representation in the legislative process.

By 1775, the confrontation between the mother country and the colonies had become irreconcilable: this clash involved political ambitions, economic interests, and ideological contradictions.

In 1776, at a meeting of the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia, the Declaration of Independence was adopted—the main document of the revolution, written by Thomas Jefferson. Thirteen American colonies in North America proclaimed their independence from Great Britain.

The War of Independence continued with varying success from 1775 to 1783.

Historians agree that among foreign nations, France played a key role in the colonists’ victory, providing financial, diplomatic, and military support to the rebels in their struggle against Great Britain. However, Russia did not remain on the sidelines either. Although Catherine the Great did not directly support the rebelling colonies, her policy of “Armed Neutrality” and trade through European intermediaries nevertheless helped the States endure, ensuring a continuous supply of critically important goods.

Festive events are taking place across the country in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States, with historical reenactments—so beloved by Americans—holding a prominent place. One of the largest recently took place at the Mount Vernon estate on the banks of the Potomac in Virginia, the former plantation of the first American president, George Washington.