Lexington & Concord: Opening Shots of the American Revolution

What was the main reason for General Thomas Gage's actions to secure the colony's military supplies?

To prevent the Patriot militias from accessing the supplies

What did General Thomas Gage do after receiving orders from London on April 14, 1775?

He planned to disarm the militias and arrest key colonial leaders

What did many key colonial figures, such as John Hancock and Samuel Adams, do upon learning about Gage's orders?

They left Boston to seek safety in the country

What did Patriot leader Dr. Joseph Warren inform Paul Revere and William Dawes about on the night of April 18, 1775?

The British would be embarking that night for Cambridge and the road to Lexington and Concord Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of General Thomas Gage's efforts to secure the colony's military supplies at Concord?

Many of the supplies were quickly moved to other towns Signup and view all the answers

What was the consequence of the scouting party sent by Gage towards Concord?

It alerted the colonials to British intentions Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial order given to the town's militia by Captain John Parker?

To form into ranks on the town green and not fire unless fired upon Signup and view all the answers

Who led the British vanguard that arrived in Lexington?

Major John Pitcairn Signup and view all the answers

What led to an exchange of fire between the British and the militia in Lexington?

A shot from an unknown source Signup and view all the answers

How many militia members were killed in the exchange of fire at Lexington?

Eight Signup and view all the answers

Where did the Concord militia take up a position after falling back from the North Bridge?

On a hill across the North Bridge Signup and view all the answers

Who led the Concord militia as they reinforced their position near the North Bridge?

Colonel James Barrett Signup and view all the answers

Where did the colonial militia take up concealed positions to attack the British column during their return march to Boston?

Along the road Signup and view all the answers

How many casualties did Smith's men suffer during the return march to Boston?

272 Signup and view all the answers

What was the immediate effect of the news of the fighting spreading?

Formation of a colonial army of over 20,000 Signup and view all the answers

What action did Captain John Parker partially comply with when the British vanguard arrived in Lexington?

Ordering his men to go home, but retain their muskets Signup and view all the answers