Flashback Friday - Nov. 30, 1782 Britain signs agreement recognizing US independence

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Over 230 years ago the revolutionary war was finally winding down towards its end.  On this day November 30, 1782 the British signed an agreement to recognize US independence.


This also included the definition of the boundaries of the United States of America along with the British agreeing to withdraw troops from the US. However it wasn't until April 11, 1783 when Congress officially declared the end to the Revolutionary War.

Here are some facts about the Revolutionary War:

  • Involved 217,000-231,000 Colonial Troops although only about 48,000 active at any given time.
  • At any given time Britain had about 22,000 Troops along with ~25,000 Loyalists (colonist still loyal to Britain), and about 30,000 German Troops at it's disposal
  • The British hired professional German troops called Hessians
  • About 6,800 US troops died in battle, however 25,000 US troops died during the war mostly due to disease.
  • Total British casualties was about 24,000, but it is unclear how many are from battle, vs disease.
  • The War lasted 8 years from 1775 to 1783
  • Congress chose George Washington as Commander in Chief of their armed forces
  • Independence was not the original goal of the colonies, they simply wanted more autonomy from Britain.  However, when Britain declared them as enemies, they had no other choice.
  • One of George Washington's greatest displays of power was on December 23, 1783 when he surrendered his power to a grateful congress. 
It is amazing to learn about this event in history and how it is possible we have the great nation of the USA today.  I am so grateful for the many men who sacrificed all they had so we could be free today!

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