Which event marked the beginning of the American Revolution?

• A. The signing of the Declaration of Independence
• B. The Boston Tea Party
• C. The Battles of Lexington and Concord
• D. The Constitutional Convention

Answer: (C)

The event that marked the beginning of the American Revolution is the Battles of Lexington and Concord. This conflict occurred on April 19, 1775, and represents the first military engagements between British troops and colonial militias. These battles are often referred to as "the shot heard 'round the world" because they signified the start of armed resistance against British rule, which ultimately led to the colonies seeking independence.

While the signing of the Declaration of Independence is a significant event in American history, it occurred later, on July 4, 1776, formally declaring the colonies' intent to separate from British governance. The Boston Tea Party, which took place in December 1773, was a pivotal moment of protest against British taxation but did not involve armed conflict. The Constitutional Convention, held in 1787, focused on creating the U.S. Constitution and came after the revolution had successfully concluded. Thus, the Battles of Lexington and Concord rightfully mark the commencement of the American Revolutionary War.