Final answer:
The significance of the battles of Lexington and Concord was that they marked the unexpected start of the American Revolution, while the Battle of Bunker Hill showed the determination and strength of the colonial forces. Both battles were land engagements and occurred before the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The significance of the battles of the American Revolution prior to the signing of the Declaration of Independence is pronounced in the engagement at Lexington and Concord and the Battle of Bunker (Breed’s) Hill. The battles of Lexington and Concord, which were the first engagements of the war, marked the unplanned start of the hostilities. A shot fired at Lexington, known as the "shot heard around the world," began the Revolutionary War. These battles were not naval engagements; rather, they took place on land with colonial militias confronting British forces, ultimately leading to an organized colonial resistance and the establishment of the Continental Army, commanded by George Washington. On June 17, 1775, the Battle of Bunker Hill, fought at Breed's Hill, demonstrated the colonial forces' ability to stand up to professional British troops despite facing ammunition shortages. While the British won the battle, their casualties were high, and the colonial morale was boosted, indicating that they could hold their own against the might of the British army. This battle was significant as it solidified King George III's position that the colonies were in full rebellion, and it was neither the beginning nor the end of the American Revolution.