On this day in 1776, a key event marked the opening phase of the Revolutionary War took place: General George Washington ordered American artillery forces to bombard Boston from their positions at Lechmere Point ahead of the Continental Army's occupation of Dorchester Heights. The so-called Siege of Boston began after the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Following two consecutive days of bombardment, American Brigadier General John Thomas positioned 2,000 cannons, artillery, and troops just south of Boston at Dorchester Heights. By March 5, 1776, the Continental Army's had artillery troops in position around Boston, including the elevated position at Dorchester Heights. British General William Howe came to the realization that Boston was indefensible to the American positions and opted to leave the city on March 7. Ten days later, on March 17, the eight-year British occupation of Boston finally ended when British troops fled the city and sailed to Halifax, Nova Scotia. ...

Few cities (if any) cities in the United States are as charming and rich in history as Boston. The capital and largest city in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts boasts everything from Fenway Park, and Copley Square to Faneuil Hall and many of the country's most respected universities. Here are 19 fun facts about the city dubbed the Bay State, many of which: The city proper encompasses 48 square miles with an estimated population of 655,884 in 2014, making it the largest city in New England and the 24th largest city in the United States. The city is the cultural and economic hub of a considerably larger metropolitan area called Greater Boston, home to nearly 5 million people. Boston was founded on the Shawmut Peninsula in 1630 by Puritan settlers from England. It was the scene of several pivotal events of the American Revolution, including the Boston Tea Party, Boston Massacre, the Battle of Bunker Hill, and the Siege of Boston. Boston is home to the United States' old...