
American Colonies
The American colonies were territories established by European countries, mainly Britain, along the eastern coast of North America, from the early 1600s to the 1770s. These colonies developed their own communities, economies, and governments, but were ultimately controlled by their European rulers. Over time, colonists sought more independence due to issues like taxation without representation, leading to tensions. This culminated in the American Revolution (1775-1783), when the colonies fought to become an independent nation, the United States. The colonies played a vital role in early American history, shaping cultural and political foundations still relevant today.