The American Revolutionary War, which lasted from 1775 to 1783, ultimately led to the independence of the United States. Tensions between the American colonies and British government escalated over issues such as taxation without representation and British military presence. The conflict sparked a desire for self-governance among the colonists, resulting in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The war was marked by key battles, alliances (notably with France), and significant figures like George Washington. The successful conclusion of the war in 1783, with the Treaty of Paris, formally recognized the United States as an independent nation and laid the groundwork for its future governance.