American Revolution (1775-83)

No list of this nature would be complete without including the conflict that defined the fight for freedom: the American Revolution. The struggle was borne out of a dissatisfaction of the 13 British colonies established on the east coast of America with Great Britain. A lack of adequate political representation within the British government, economic disparity and oppression, a natural attitude of self-reliance, and being located several thousands of miles away (and separated by a vast ocean), all contributed to American discontent. As a
result, armed revolt was the answer in 1775 (with the declaration of independence coming a year later in 1776). Interestingly enough at the onset of hostilities, the 13 original colonies considered themselves as separate and sovereign nations; though with common interest. It wasn’t until 1781 that the states placed themselves under a united (loosely used) banner with the Articles of Confederation. Nevertheless, the task ahead of the American “rebels” was daunting. The British military was arguably the finest in the world (their navy was unquestionably so). They were well armed and expertly trained, with the resources of a wealthy nation behind them. The Americans, on the other hand, were poorly situated in every single category. In fact, the Continental Army struggled to the very end of the war to maintain itself. Nevertheless, what the Americans lacked in – well everything – they did have the advantage of fighting on their own land. This meant they had a much shorter line of supply (no oceans to cross) and a friendly population surrounding them. The rest, as they say is history. But the path to victory was a bloody one with 50,000 plus American (20,000 British) casualties once hostilities ended.