The National Archives Opens New Exhibit of American Revolution Records
WASHINGTON, DC
The National Archives in Washington, DC, is pleased to announce its new rotating exhibit, Road to Revolution. The exhibit features 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. “Through Road to Revolution and Declaration250, we will make American history engaging, accessible and exciting. We hope everyone will join us on the journey to 250,” Shogan added.
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, a 1774 political cartoon by Paul Revere, and more. This first series of records is on display through August 28, 2024.
The National Archives will be sharing related documents from our holdings on our blogs and social media channels, like this new blog post about the Lee Resolution and its relationship to the documents on display in this exhibit.
Road to Revolution is on display through August 6, 2026, in the West Rotunda Gallery at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC. The visitor entrance is located at Constitution Avenue at 9th Street, NW. Admission is free.
Future displays in the Road to Revolution series will feature records related to the First Continental Congress, Native Americans’ connection to the American Revolution, and more.
Follow #ArchivesRoadToRevolution and #Declaration250 to learn more.
Road to Revolution is made possible in part by the National Archives Foundation, through the generous support of Comcast Corporation and Microsoft Corporation.
About the National Archives
The National Archives and Records Administration is an independent federal agency that serves American democracy by safeguarding and preserving the records of our government so people can discover, use, and learn from this documentary heritage. The National Archives ensures continuing access to the essential documentation of the rights of American citizens and the actions of their government. From the Declaration of Independence to accounts of ordinary Americans, the holdings of the National Archives directly touch the lives of millions of people. The agency supports democracy, promotes civic education, and facilitates historical understanding of our national experience. The National Archives carries out its mission through a nationwide network of archives, records centers, and Presidential Libraries and online at www.archives.gov.
About the National Archives Foundation
The National Archives Foundation is an independent nonprofit that increases public awareness of the National Archives, inspires a deeper appreciation of our country’s heritage and encourages citizen engagement in our democracy. The foundation generates financial and creative support for National Archives exhibitions, public programs, and educational initiatives, introducing America’s records to people around the U.S. and the world. Learn more at www.archivesfoundation.org.