After the years of tension that consisted of the various taxes levied on the American colonists by Great Britain and events such as the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party, it seemed that war was going to be inevitable.  The final decisive move by America to declare Independence from Great Britain in July 1776, was the main trigger of the Revolutionary War.  Great Britain believed that this war for independence would be short and an easy victory.  The Americans believed that Great Britain would eventually give up after losing some battles.  It seemed as if Great Britain was in a better position because of the numerous advantages they had while the Americans had some serious disadvantages.

Advantages of Great Britain:
1. Strongest Navy in the World
2. Well-trained Army
3. Wealth
4. Large Population

Disadvantages facing Americans:
1. Lack of Regular Army and Navy
2. Shortage of Weapons and Ammunition
3. Opposition among the Americans

The Revolutionary War would last from 1776 to 1783.  John Adams was correct when he stated, "We shall have a long...and bloody war to go through."