The American Declaration of Independence was published and signed by representatives of each state, withdrawing 13 British Colonies from the Empire and forming the United States of America.

A British Army under General John Burgoyne was defeated and captured in the Saratoga Campaign in New York State. Historians view this engagement as the turning point in the War for Independence since it triggered the French agreeing to help the Americans. American General Horatio Gates received the credit for the victory although General Benedict Arnold and other officers actually fought the battle while Gates remained in the rear.

U.S. Secret Service founded with Aaron Burr as first director.

United States forces re-entered Philadelphia in the Revolutionary War.

Henry Laurens of South Carolina, outspoken supporter of the Revolutionary War and independence, fourth President of the Congress, was captured by the British in route to The Hague. Imprisoned in the Tower of London, Laurens became a more devout Christian and after his exchange for General Cornwallis, captured at Yorktown, continued his service to his new country with redoubled purpose.