The Nation: Chronology of Independence

1763 Feb. 10. After nine years of intermittent fighting along American borders, French and Indian War ends. France cedes all claims on Canada to Britain, as well as Louisiana territories east of the Mississippi. Victorious Britain nonetheless has added £ 100 million to its national debt.

1765 March 22. British Parliament, hoping to raise £60,000 per year, passes Stamp Act requiring payment for revenue stamps on all newspapers, pamphlets, almanacs, legal documents, playing cards and dice. Sons of Liberty clubs formed in Boston and elsewhere to resist Stamp Act.

Cct 7-25. Delegates...

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