a) Battle of Lexington and Concord
The Battle of Lexington and Concord, fought on April 19, 1775, marked the official start of the American Revolutionary War. These battles were the culmination of rising tensions between the American colonists and British authorities. The British aimed to seize colonial weapons stored in Concord, but were met with unexpected resistance. The “shot heard ’round the world” at Lexington was the first exchange of fire, followed by a more significant engagement at Concord. These battles demonstrated the colonists’ willingness to fight for their rights and set the stage for the revolutionary struggle. The event is a testament to the American spirit of resistance and determination.