28 Renner ⦁ Revolutions listed in the Declaration of Independence. Further, the Americans refused to purchase goods from Britain and attacked British government officials. Following the Boston Tea Party, Parliament set higher regulations on Massachusetts, increasing tension. The first Continental Congress met in Philadelphia to discuss what action the Americans should take. Congress decided to stop all imports of British goods and to unite all thirteen colonies against British government oppression. This strong decision led to the beginning of the American Revolution.2 Beginning with the Battle of Lexington and Concord in 1775, the American Revolution lasted eight years. After the American victory of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, the Americans marched to the famous musical tune, “Yankee Doodle,” which became a popular theme of victory during the Revolution.3 At the start of the Revolution, Congress elected George Washington as commander-in-chief of the Patriot Army.4 It is evident that music played a part within the military as Simon Anderson stated that “George Washington’s Revolutionary Army took its daily information and inspiration from the regimental drummers and fifers.”5 Washington considered music of great importance and value within the military and elected the first inspector of music, Lieutenant John Hiwell, in 1778.6 After over a year of fighting, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.7 While America declared independence, fighting continued with many victories and defeats on both sides. Washington’s army struggled through the winter of 1777–1778 at Valley Forge, facing shortages of clothing, food, and shelter. France entered the picture by sending supplies to Washington and Baron von Steuben was recruited to help organize Washington’s army with standardized drill calls by military musicians.8 Baron von Steuben described the overall condition of 2 Murray, 6. 3 Lemay, 461. 4 Murray, 20. 5 Anderson, 26. 6 Camus, 129. 7 Murray, 9. 8 Shaw, n.p.
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