
1776–1789
Founding of the United States
American leaders declared independence, formed a new government, and adopted the United States Constitution.
Defining Moments
Key Historical Events
Historical events for this era are still being added. Check back soon.
Historic Places
Explore Destinations From This Era

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown
Yorktown, VA
A museum and living-history site in Yorktown exploring the American Revolution through artifacts, immersive galleries, films, a Continental Army camp, and an 18th-century farm.
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Faneuil Hall
Boston, MA
Boston’s historic market and meeting hall has served for nearly three centuries as a stage for debates over liberty, abolition, suffrage, labor, and civic life.
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Federal Hall National Memorial
New York, NY
A National Park Service memorial at the birthplace of the federal government and the site of George Washington's first presidential inauguration.
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Fraunces Tavern Museum
New York, NY
A Revolutionary-era museum inside the historic tavern where George Washington bade farewell to his officers in 1783.
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George Taylor House
Catasauqua, PA
A restored 1768 stone home of Pennsylvania signer and ironmaster George Taylor, preserved as a National Historic Landmark in Catasauqua.
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Hamilton Grange National Memorial
New York, NY
Alexander Hamilton's restored country home, offering an intimate view of the Founder's domestic life and role in shaping the early United States.
View DetailsAbout This Era
American leaders declared independence, formed a new government, and adopted the United States Constitution.
Last updated August 2, 2026
Road Trips in this Era

Revolutionary Boston: From Protest to Independence
Walk through the meeting halls, streets, waterfront, and battle landscape where Boston’s resistance to British rule became revolution.
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The First State: From Independence to Ratification
Follow Delaware's path from colonial independence to statehood through its first capitol, a founding-era plantation, and Dover's historic seat of government.
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