The American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, with the Battles of Lexington and Concord, marking the start of the colonial rebellion against British rule. Over the next several years, the conflict escalated into a full-scale war for independence, with the colonies ultimately achieving their goal and establishing the United States of America. Throughout the war, various European powers, including France, Spain, and the Netherlands, provided support to the American colonists in their struggle against Britain.