Which battle is recognized as the starting point of the Revolutionary War?

The battle recognized as the starting point of the Revolutionary War is Lexington and Concord. This encounter, which took place on April 19, 1775, marked the first military engagements between British troops and colonial militia. The conflict began when British troops were sent to confiscate colonial weapons stored at Concord, leading to skirmishes with colonial militias in both Lexington and Concord. The battles resulted in a significant awakening among the colonies, galvanizing them to unite against British rule. This pivotal moment is often encapsulated by the phrase "the shot heard 'round the world," emphasizing its global impact and the beginning of the quest for American independence.

In contrast, Bunker Hill was significant in demonstrating the colonists' resolve, Yorktown was the final major battle that effectively ended the war, and Saratoga is celebrated for turning the tide in favor of the colonies by securing French support. Each of these battles contributed meaningfully to the war, but Lexington and Concord is specifically noted as the point at which hostilities officially commenced.