If you’ve seen a North Carolina license plate recently, you’ve probably noticed the slogan “First in Freedom.” That refers to the Halifax Resolves, the first official cry for independence from a colony. Learn more about the 1776 Halifax Resolves on NCpedia.
North Carolina's early history is filled with fascinating stories, from Royal Governor Josiah Martin, who fled from Tryon Palace to rule offshore, to the heroic actions of a mother to protect her children during a Revolutionary War skirmish at House in the Horseshoe. Explore this interesting period of Tar Heel history with some of the resources gathered below.
Colonial and Revolutionary North Carolina by the Numbers
Women who participated in the Edenton Tea Party
Estimated N.C. Population in 1770
N.C. Men Who Signed the Declaration of Independence
Revolutionary Places to Visit
Discover North Carolina's rich history by visiting the sites where it all began.
From the site of the first official cry for independence from a colony at Historic Halifax to the ruins of a colonial town built in the 1700s, you'll find them all in North Carolina!
Black Patriots of North Carolina
Listen to historical interpreter Frank McMahon as he discusses his research on African American participation in the American Revolution.
A Pre-Revolutionary Revolution
Just years before the Revolutionary War, North Carolina backcountry farmers revolted against the colonial government centered in the east because they were upset with excessive taxation and a lack of representation as part of what's now called the War of Regulation.