1776.—July 4.—America is declared “Free, sovereign, and independent”—a declaration which is signed by the following States: New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.
1777.—Dec. 16.—France acknowledges the independence of the United States.
1778.—Feb. 6.—Treaties of Amity and Commerce adopted between the United States and France.
1781.—Feb.—Articles of Confederation ratified by the States.
1782.—Oct. 8.—Independence of United States acknowledged by Holland. Nov. 3.—Temporary Treaty of Peace signed at Paris.
1783.—Sept. 3.—Treaty of Peace signed at Paris. Nov. 3.—American army disbanded. Nov. 25.—New York evacuated by the British. Dec. 19.—Charleston evacuated by British. Dec. 23.—Washington resigns his commission to Congress.
1785.—June 1.—John Adams, first minister from U. S. to London.
1786.—Nov.—Shay’s insurrection broke out in Massachusetts.
1787.—Sept. 17.—Constitution of the United States adopted by all the States, except Rhode Island.
1788.—Cotton planted in Georgia.