In a well research, one page paper, explain who fired the first shot of the American Revolution.

In a well research, one page paper, explain who fired the first shot of the American Revolution.

Need Help Writing an Essay?

Tell us about your essay and we will find the best writer for your paper.

WRITE MY ESSAY

The Battle of Lexington and Concord that happened on April 19, 1775, is perceived as the first military combat that brings about the American revolution (Washington & Army, 2014).  On that day, colonial militiamen had assembled at Lexington Green in the early morning with an intention to counter the British troops that had come to destroy ammunition and guns stored in Concord (Washington & Army, 2014).  On arrival, the British ordered the colonists to disperse, and after a while, a gunshot was heard, which signified the start of the American revolution. The dilemma in this situation is to determine who fired first. Based on past literature, no conclusive and sufficient evidence explains the first group to shot. However, there are some circumstantial indications, which convinces me to believe that the British shot first.

Argument

During the confrontation, militiamen suffered most while the British troops were not severely affected. For instance, the British experienced one casualty while eight militiamen perished including their leader, Ensign Robert Munroe. Besides, the ability of the British to conquer the colonial militia at Lexington Green is a clear indication that they had prepared for war. After defeating the militiamen, the British troops marched to search for the guns and ammunition, which they intended to destroy (Washington & Army, 2014). However, they realized that most of them had been relocated and decided to burn the little they found.

Conclusion

Based on the discussed occassions, I believe the British troops fired first to scare away the militiamen who had gathered to block them from accessing the weapons. They were determined to destroy the guns and ammunition stored in Concord. However, they were surprised to encounter a stumbling block and they had to respond promptly, by shooting.