The National Archives Opens New Exhibit of American Revolution Records
Annotated map of the British Colonies in North America with the roads, distances, limits and extent of the settlements, ca. 1775.
The National Archives in Washington, DC has announced its new rotating exhibit, Road to Revolution, featuring a selection of records that document major milestones in the journey from colonial resistance to American independence and the experiences of the nation's founding generation.
“The founding of our nation is a story of courage and vision,” said Archivist of the United States Dr. Colleen Shogan. “With Road to Revolution we will showcase records from the National Archives that highlight the daring journey toward the birth of our nation and our collective pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness.”
The Road to Revolution exhibition is part of Declaration250, the National Archives’ celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026.
The exhibit’s first selection of records, Roots of Rebellion, focuses on the Seven Years’ War, a conflict that connects to the American Revolution. The display features historical records such as a 1765 map of the British colonies, and a 1774 political cartoon by Paul Revere. This first series of records is on display through August 28. Future displays in the Road to Revolution series will feature records related to the First Continental Congress, and Native Americans’ connection to the American Revolution.
Road to Revolution is on display through August 6, 2026, in the West Rotunda Gallery at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC. Admission is free.
