Let It Begin Here!: Lexington And Concord First Battles Of The American Revolution

"Stand your ground. Don't fire unless fired upon. But if they mean to have a war, let it begin here!"-- Captain John Parker, leader of the Lexington militia

In less than 24 hours a rebellious colony would be changed forever. April 18, 17759: 30 P.M. Paul Revere learns that the British army is marching to Lexington and Concord to arrest rebel leaders and destroy American military supplies. 11: 00 P.M. Revere begins his famous midnight ride to warn his fellow patriots about the British plans. April 19, 177512: 00 A.M. Revere reaches Lexington and warns rebel leaders Samuel Adams and John Hancock that the British are coming. They escape and rouse the town's militi 1: 00 A.M. Revere is captured by the British, but a fellow patriot continues on to warn the sleeping village of Concord. 5: 00 A.M. An advance lookout for the Lexington militia spots the approaching British army and shouts a warning. 5: 20 A.M. Most of the 70 Lexington militiamen, outgunned by the military might of the 250 British regulars, decide to back down. But a few men stand their ground, including Jonas Parker, a grandfather who has vowed never to flee the British. Suddenly, a shot rings out.