Timeline of Events at New Bridge in the American Revolution

Historical marker location:
River Edge, New Jersey
( Marker is on Main Street, on the left when traveling east.)
Marker installed: 2021

11 Engagements Throughout the War

  A brief timeline of the American Revolution
  • 1765: The Stamp Act is passed by the British Parliament, imposing a tax on American colonists for various printed materials. This sparks widespread protests and resistance among the colonists.

  • 1770: The Boston Massacre occurs when British soldiers fire on a crowd of American colonists in Boston, resulting in the death of five colonists. The event further escalates tensions between the colonists and British authorities.

  • 1773: The Boston Tea Party takes place as colonists, disguised as Native Americans, dump tea from British East India Company ships into Boston Harbor in protest against the Tea Act.

  • 1774: The First Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia. Delegates from twelve of the thirteen colonies gather to discuss grievances against British policies and plan a united response.

  • 1775: The Battles of Lexington and Concord mark the beginning of armed conflict between British troops and American colonial militia. The "shot heard 'round the world" ignites the Revolutionary War.

  • 1776: On July 4, the Second Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson. The document asserts the colonies' independence from Britain and outlines the principles of individual rights and self-government.

  • 1777: The American victory at the Battle of Saratoga in New York proves to be a turning point in the war. It convinces the French to openly support the American cause and enter the war as allies.

  • 1778: The Treaty of Alliance is signed between the United States and France, formalizing their military alliance. France provides crucial support to the American forces, including troops, naval assistance, and financial aid.

  • 1781: The Siege of Yorktown takes place in Virginia, where combined American and French forces, led by General George Washington and French General Rochambeau, successfully trap British General Cornwallis and his troops. Cornwallis surrenders on October 19, effectively ending major hostilities in the Revolutionary War.

  • 1783: The Treaty of Paris is signed, formally ending the American Revolutionary War. Great Britain recognizes the independence of the United States and establishes its boundaries. The treaty also grants fishing rights to American fishermen in the waters off Newfoundland and Nova Scotia.

  • 1787: The Constitutional Convention convenes in Philadelphia to draft a new constitution to replace the Articles of Confederation, which proved ineffective in governing the newly independent nation.

  • 1788: The United States Constitution is ratified by the required number of states and goes into effect. It establishes a strong federal government with separate branches and a system of checks and balances.

  • 1789: George Washington is inaugurated as the first President of the United States, and the new federal government is established in New York City.

This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the American Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous other battles, diplomatic negotiations, and developments that occurred during this period.

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The United States Army's Fort Dix, located in New Jersey, served as a major training and staging ground for American troops during both World War I and World War II.
Bergen County, located in the northeastern part of New Jersey, has a rich and varied history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Lenape people, who lived along the Hackensack River and hunted and fished in the region. European settlement began in the 17th century when Dutch settlers established trading posts and farms. The Dutch West India Company purchased the land in the early 17th century, and it became known as Bergen, after the Dutch city of Bergen op Zoom.

During the American Revolution, Bergen County played a significant role. British troops occupied parts of the county, and the area witnessed numerous skirmishes and battles. One notable event was the Battle of Fort Lee, where General George Washington ordered the evacuation of his troops in the face of a British attack. After the war, Bergen County experienced population growth, with more diverse groups of people settling in the area.

In the 19th century, Bergen County saw significant development and industrialization. The construction of the Erie Canal and later, the railroads, helped connect Bergen County to New York City and facilitated the growth of manufacturing and commerce. Towns like Hackensack, Englewood, and Paterson became important centers of industry and trade. Additionally, the opening of the George Washington Bridge in 1931 further enhanced the county's accessibility and spurred suburbanization.

Today, Bergen County is a bustling and thriving suburban region. It is known for its diverse communities, excellent educational institutions, and proximity to New York City. The county offers a wide range of recreational and cultural attractions, including parks, museums, shopping malls, and dining options. With a combination of historical significance and modern amenities, Bergen County remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Bergen County, New Jersey.

  • 1683 - Bergen County is established as one of New Jersey's original counties.
  • 1660s-1700s - European settlers, primarily of Dutch and English descent, start to establish settlements in Bergen County.
  • 1776-1783 - Bergen County plays a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War, with notable battles occurring at Fort Lee and New Bridge Landing.
  • 19th century - Industrialization and urbanization lead to significant growth in Bergen County, attracting immigrants from various European countries.
  • 1840 - The Northern Railroad of New Jersey opens, increasing connectivity and facilitating further economic development.
  • 20th century - Suburbanization becomes a dominant trend, with many residents commuting to New York City for work.
  • 1946 - Bergen Community College, the largest community college in New Jersey, is established.
  • 1970s-1980s - Bergen County experiences a surge in population and construction, accompanied by commercial and retail development.
  • 1990 - Bergen County's last remaining farm is sold, marking the end of the county's agricultural era.
  • Present - Bergen County has a diverse population and is known for its wealth, cultural institutions, and proximity to New York City.