From Protests to Armed Resistance: Prior to Lexington and Concord, the conflict between Britain and the colonists had been characterized by protests, boycotts, and political petitions. While tensions were high, there had not been any direct armed conflict. The Battles of Lexington and Concord marked the first instances of armed resistance by the colonists against British forces.
Declaration of War: Following the events of Lexington and Concord, King George III and the British government sent additional troops to the colonies with the objetivo of restoring order and maintaining British authority. In turn, the American colonists formed an interim government, called the Continental Congress, and began preparing for full-scale war against Great Britain.
Increased Colonist Solidarity: The battles at Lexington and Concord led to a strengthening of ties among the thirteen colonies. They realized that only through collective action could they resist the power of the British Empire.
Formation of the Continental Army: In response to the growing conflict, the Second Continental Congress created the Continental Army, with George Washington appointed as its commander-in-chief. This formalize the colonies' military efforts and marked the first step towards establishing a separate national identity.
Global Support: News of the battles spread widely to Europe and garnered sympathy for the cause of the colonialists. Nations like France and Spain, who were rivals to Britain, saw an opportunity to weaken their mutual competitor by supporting the rebellious American colonists.
Rise of Nationalism: The conflict deepened the sentiment of nationalism among the Americans as they fought for their rights and self-governance. The successful resistance against the better-equipped British Army boosted their confidence and forged a shared sense of American identity.
Intensified British Military Force: The Battle of Lexington and Concord prompted the British government to take a more aggressive approach to resolving the rebellion. They sent several reinforcements and implemented strategies for military occupation of rebel areas, increasing colonial resentment and determination to secure independence.
Overall, the events of Lexington and Concord transformed the conflict between Britain and its American colonies into a full-fledged war between opposing armies. They set the stage for the struggle for American independence and paved the way for the establishment of the United States as a sovereign nation.