Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

What event is referred to as the first fighting of the American Revolution?

1. The Battle of Yorktown

2. The Battles of Lexington and Concord

3. The Siege of Boston

4. The Boston Tea Party

The correct answer is: The Battles of Lexington and Concord

The first fighting of the American Revolution is identified as the Battles of Lexington and Concord. This pivotal event took place on April 19, 1775, and marked the beginning of armed conflict between the American colonies and British forces. The battles were initiated when British troops were sent to seize colonial military supplies stored in Concord. American militias, alerted by riders like Paul Revere, gathered to confront the British, resulting in the first shots fired at Lexington, which are famously known as "the shot heard 'round the world." This event is significant as it galvanized support for the revolutionary cause. The confrontations at Lexington and Concord symbolized the colonies' willingness to stand up against British authority and laid the groundwork for the eventual declaration of independence. The importance of this event lies in its status as a direct challenge to British control, launching the colonies into a long struggle for independence. In contrast, the other options represent different aspects of the Revolutionary War. The Siege of Boston occurred later in the war and was a period of military engagement to liberate the city from British troops. The Boston Tea Party was an act of protest against British taxation that did not involve fighting but rather a pivotal political act of defiance. Lastly, the Battle of Yorktown was a