The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History

Watch three short original documentaries about the American Revolution, two of which feature History Now Editor Carol Berkin, produced by NBC Learn for use in the classroom.

Shortly after the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775, Thomas Paine wrote an anonymous pamphlet titled, "Common Sense," that helped persuade Americans to push for full independence from Britain.

Women played a crucial role during the American Revolution as they took on the responsibilities of running farms, leading boycotts, and aiding the Continental Army.

The Articles of Confederation suited the goals of the American Revolutionaries when they were fighting for freedom from the British monarchy. Yet these documents, which favored states' rights over federal power, were inadequate after the Revolution, when a strong central government became necessary.