🌎 North America in 1776: A Continent Divided Between Empires! In 1776, North America was a very different place. European colonial powers controlled vast territories, while 13 British colonies on the Atlantic coast declared independence and began the American Revolution. 🇺🇸 13 American Colonies: The birthplace of the United States, which declared independence on July 4, 1776. 🇬🇧 British Territory: Britain controlled much of Canada and other territories across the continent. 🇪🇸 Spanish Territory: Spain dominated large parts of western North America, Florida, and territories south of the Mississippi River. 🇷🇺 Russian Territory: Russia maintained a presence in Alaska through its colonial settlements and fur-trading activities. A continent shaped by empires, exploration, and the struggle for independence. 1776 marked the beginning of a new chapter in North American history. Geography Facts