The significance of the American Revolutionary War lies in its establishment of the United States as an independent nation, free from British colonial rule. This conflict, which lasted from 1775 to 1783, was rooted in Enlightenment principles advocating for self-governance, individual rights, and democratic ideals. The war not only secured independence but also set a precedent for subsequent revolutions around the world. The resulting Treaty of Paris in 1783 recognized American sovereignty and paved the way for the creation of the U.S. Constitution, which established a framework for governance that influenced democratic structures globally. The war's legacy continues to impact contemporary views on freedom and rights.