The Revolution, like all conflicts, had events leading up to the violence. There were also key points that decided the war. Below are two timelines that will show you these events.
http://www.timetoast.com/timelines/944108 http://www.timetoast.com/timelines/947470
http://www.timetoast.com/timelines/944108 http://www.timetoast.com/timelines/947470