The Storming of the Bastille (1789–1799) kicks off the French Revolution, with citizens of Paris storming the citadel and freeing the Bastille's last seven captives. Peasants assault aristocracy manors in rural regions. The Continental Army and Navy, led by General George Washington, destroyed the British force, winning the thirteen colonies' freedom. The 13 states replaced the Articles of Confederation of 1777 with the United States of America Constitution in 1789.