Revere was born in Boston, Massachusetts, to Apollos Rivoire, a French Huguenot, and Deborah Hitchborn, the daughter of a Boston blacksmith. He was apprenticed to his father at the age of 13 and learned the silversmith's trade. In 1754, he joined the Massachusetts militia and fought in the French and Indian War.
After the war, Revere returned to Boston and established his own silversmith shop. He also became active in politics and served on the Boston Committee of Correspondence. In 1774, he was appointed to the Massachusetts Provincial Congress.
On the night of April 18, 1775, Revere rode from Boston to Lexington and Concord to warn the American militia that the British were coming by sea. He made his way through British checkpoints by pretending to be a doctor making house calls. When he reached Lexington, he met with John Hancock and Samuel Adams, who were staying at the Buckman Tavern. He warned them that the British were coming and then continued on to Concord.
Revere's ride is considered to be one of the most important events in the American Revolution. It helped to rally the American militia and led to the battles of Lexington and Concord, which were the first battles of the war.
Revere continued to serve in the American Revolution until 1783. He later returned to Boston and resumed his silversmithing business. He also served in the Massachusetts legislature and was a founder of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association.
Revere died in Boston in 1818 at the age of 83. He is considered to be one of the most important figures in American history.