Final answer:
The first major military engagement of the American Revolution was near Boston at Lexington and Concord in 1775. New York was the base for British operations for most of the war, and the Battle of Saratoga was crucial in turning the tide of the war in favor of the Americans.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first major military engagement of the American Revolution took place near Boston. This historic encounter occurred at Lexington and Concord in 1775. These initial skirmishes sparked what would become a long and arduous conflict for independence.
New York served as the base for British operations for most of the war, becoming a critical operational center after the British evacuation of Boston. The war was a series of military engagements across the American colonies, concluding with the surrender of British forces at Yorktown in 1781.
Although battles occurred throughout the colonies, the Battle of Saratoga turned the tide of the war in favor of the Americans, marking a pivotal moment. It led to France formally recognizing the United States and providing much-needed military support against the British.