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1780s facts for kids

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Millennium: 2nd millennium
Centuries: 17th century18th century19th century
Decades: 1750s 1760s 1770s1780s1790s 1800s 1810s
Years: 1780 1781 1782 1783 1784 1785 1786 1787 1788 1789
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The 1780s was a very important decade in history, full of big changes and new beginnings. It was a time when countries fought for independence, new nations were formed, and people started to think differently about how governments should work. This period saw the end of a major war and the start of another, shaping the world we live in today.

Major World Events (1780s)

End of the American Revolutionary War

The American Revolutionary War officially ended in the early 1780s. This war was fought between Great Britain and its thirteen colonies in North America. The colonies wanted to be independent and form their own country. After years of fighting, the colonies won their freedom. This was a huge moment because it showed that a group of colonies could successfully break away from a powerful empire.

George Washington Becomes President

After winning independence, the new country, the United States of America, needed a strong leader. George Washington, who was the commander of the American army during the war, became the very first President of the United States in 1789. This was a big step in setting up the new government and showing the world that the United States was a real nation.

The United States Constitution

One of the most important things that happened in the 1780s for the United States was the creation of the United States Constitution. This document is like a rulebook for how the government should work. It was written to make sure the new country had a fair and stable system of laws. It's still used today and is a key part of American democracy.

Beginning of the French Revolution

While America was forming its new government, big changes were also starting in Europe. The French Revolution began in France in 1789. This was a time when the people of France rose up against their king and the old system of government. They wanted more freedom and equality. The French Revolution had a huge impact on Europe and the rest of the world, inspiring many other movements for change.

Important People of the 1780s

Leaders Around the World

Many powerful leaders were in charge during the 1780s. In France, King Louis XVI was on the throne, but his rule would soon be challenged by the revolution. In Great Britain, King George III was the ruler, and he was the king during the American Revolution. Other important leaders included Emperor Joseph II of the Holy Roman Empire, and Empress Catherine II of Russia, also known as Catherine the Great, who was a very powerful and influential ruler.

Notable Births in the 1780s

The 1780s also saw the birth of some people who would become very famous later on.

  • Washington Irving (born 1783) was an American author. He is well-known for his stories like "Rip Van Winkle" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow."
  • Simón Bolívar (born 1783) was a Venezuelan patriot and revolutionary leader. He played a huge role in helping several South American countries gain their independence from Spain. He is often called "The Liberator."

Notable Deaths in the 1780s

One significant person who passed away in this decade was Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. She was a very powerful and important ruler of the Habsburg lands, including Austria, Hungary, and Bohemia. She was known for her reforms and for being the only female ruler of the Habsburg monarchy.

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