The Shot Heard Round the World — Reading Comprehension

The American Revolution began on April 19, 1775, in the towns of Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts. This first battle is known as the Shot Heard Round the World. It marked the start of a long struggle for freedom in America.

British soldiers marched from Boston to capture guns and supplies stored by the colonists. The colonists, called Minutemen, were warned by riders like Paul Revere. Paul Revere rode through the night, shouting, "The British are coming!" This warning gave the Minutemen time to get ready.

At dawn in Lexington, about seventy Minutemen waited on the village green. The British soldiers arrived. No one knows who fired the first shot. But in an instant, shots rang out. Eight Minutemen fell. The British moved on to Concord, where they met hundreds more colonists. The colonists fought bravely and forced the British to retreat back to Boston.

The battles at Lexington and Concord showed the world that the colonists were willing to fight for their rights. News of the battle spread quickly. People across the colonies were inspired to join together. These first shots began a war that would lead to American independence.

These events taught people about bravery and unity. The colonists worked together and did not give up. The "Shot Heard Round the World" became a symbol of hope for many people fighting for freedom.

Interesting Fact: The famous poet Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote about this event in his poem "Concord Hymn," calling it the "shot heard round the world."

When did the American Revolution begin?

Where did the first battle happen?

Who warned the colonists?

Why did the British march from Boston?

How did the Minutemen prepare?

What was the effect of the battle?

The colonists forced the British to retreat.

What does "unity" mean?