Lexington and Concord: Courage That Forged a Nation
On the morning of April 19, 1775, British troops and colonial minutemen fired on each other at the battles of Lexington and Concord. Referred to eloquently in Emerson’s poem, “Concord Hymn,” as “the shot heard round the world,” this event officially started the American Revolutionary War and paved the way for independence. The minutemen in Massachusetts fought and died for liberty and self-governance, principles on which this country was founded. Sadly, many Americans, even those with a college education, are ignorant of their nation’s history and founding principles. This is not only disappointing but dangerous to national solidarity. It must be rectified to ensure the continued stability and success of the United States.