On this day in history, on November 25, 1783, the last of the British troops withdrew from New York City after the signing of the Treaty of Paris. This event signified the official end of the American Revolutionary War and the success of the Declaration of Independence. 

The Revolutionary War

The American Revolutionary War was a conflict between the 13 British colonies in North America and their homeland, Great Britain. This conflict stemmed from the colonies’ dissatisfaction with British rule and taxation, as well as their desire to establish an independent nation. The war ultimately escalated into a global conflict that involved other countries, including Spain, France, and Germany.

After a significant period of unrest and protest, the American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, with the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The British Parliament had passed laws imposing direct taxes on the colonists, which led to rebellion in the colonies. British troops marched into Concord to seize supplies from the colonists and suppress the uprisings, but they encountered colonial militia. This skirmish historically marks the official start of the revolution and the fight for American independence.

The war lasted nearly a decade, with fighting continuing until September 1783. The American Revolutionary War is often referred to as a civil war because it is estimated that nearly one-third of the colonists supported the British army, and at no point did even 50 percent of the colonists back the revolutionary cause. The conflict pitted neighbor against neighbor, resulting in significant bloodshed on both sides. Despite the tragedies endured, the colonists persevered, and victory was declared in 1783, establishing America as an independent nation. 

A Historic End

The fighting of the American Revolution came to an end on October 19, 1781, when British General Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington and his forces. Following this surrender, terms were negotiated and signed, paving the way for peace discussions between Great Britain and the colonies. The Revolutionary War was officially concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Paris on September 3, 1783, which recognized the independence of the United States and established the borders of the new nation. However, many consider November 25, 1783, to be the true official end of the Revolutionary War, as this date marks the departure of the last British troops from the United States with their withdrawal from New York City. 

Symbolic Significance 

In New York City, November 25 became known as “Evacuation Day,” and many continued to celebrate this date for years with parades, fireworks, and parties. It came to symbolize a hard-won victory against a massive empire. Official celebrations of Evacuation Day ceased during World War I, as many people felt it was inappropriate to celebrate the evacuation of British allies. However, for many, the day is still remembered as a significant date in the celebration of the United States’ independence.