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[Declaration of Independence, 1776](https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript)

The thirteen American colonies fought against British rule to gain independence, leading to the establishment of the United States. Approximately 25,000 American soldiers died. The war resulted in the birth of a new nation, prompting the creation of foundational documents and institutions.

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[Treaty of Ghent, 1814](https://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=false&doc=20)

Conflict between the United States and Great Britain over maritime rights and territorial expansion. Around 15,000 American deaths. Conflict between the United States and Great Britain over maritime rights and territorial expansion. Around 15,000 American deaths. The war fostered national pride and identity, exemplified by the defense of Fort McHenry inspiring the national anthem.

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[Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, 1848](https://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=false&doc=26)

The U.S. engaged in war with Mexico, resulting in the acquisition of territories like California and New Mexico. Approximately 13,000 American soldiers died. The war intensified debates over slavery in new territories, contributing to sectional tensions.

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[Emancipation Proclamation, 1863](https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/featured-documents/emancipation-proclamation)

A civil war between the Northern states (Union) and Southern states (Confederacy) over issues including states' rights and slavery. Estimated 620,000 to 750,000 soldiers died. The war led to the abolition of slavery and significant social and economic changes during Reconstruction.

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[Treaty of Paris, 1898](https://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=false&doc=55)

A short conflict where the U.S. defeated Spain, leading to the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. Approximately 2,446 American deaths. The war marked the U.S. emergence as a global power with overseas territories, sparking debates over imperialism.

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[Zimmermann Telegram, 1917](https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/zimmermann)

The U.S. joined the Allies in the latter part of WWI, contributing to the defeat of the Central Powers. Approximately 116,516 American soldiers died. The war led to economic growth but also social tensions, including the Red Scare and women's suffrage movement.

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[FDR's Infamy Speech, 1941](https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/president-franklin-d-roosevelts-infamy-speech)

The U.S. joined the Allies after the attack on Pearl Harbor, playing a crucial role in defeating the Axis powers. Approximately 405,399 American soldiers died. The war ended the Great Depression, led to industrial growth, and initiated social changes, including the Civil Rights Movement.

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[Armistice Agreement, 1953](https://www.ourdocuments.gov/doc.php?flash=false&doc=85)

The U.S. intervened to support South Korea against the communist North, resulting in a stalemate and armistice. Approximately 36,574 American soldiers died. The war heightened Cold War tensions and led to increased military spending.

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[Pentagon Papers, 1971](https://www.archives.gov/research/pentagon-papers)

A prolonged conflict where the U.S. aimed to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. Approximately 58,220 American soldiers died. The war caused widespread protest, distrust in government, and significant social upheaval.

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[Authorization for Use of Military Force, 1991](https://www.congress.gov/bill/102nd-congress/house-joint-resolution/77)

The U.S. led a coalition under Operation Desert Storm to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait following Saddam Hussein’s invasion. The war was characterized by extensive aerial bombardment and a swift ground campaign. Approximately 294 American soldiers died. The war boosted American confidence in military technology and strategy, but concerns arose over long-term Middle Eastern involvement. The "Vietnam Syndrome" (hesitancy toward military intervention) began to fade.

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[Authorization for Use of Military Force, 2001](https://www.congress.gov/bill/107th-congress/senate-joint-resolution/23)

Following the September 11 attacks, the U.S. launched Operation Enduring Freedom to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power. The war evolved into a prolonged counterinsurgency effort. Approximately 2,461 American soldiers died. The war contributed to increased defense spending, heightened national security measures (e.g., the PATRIOT Act), and debates over U.S. interventionism. The withdrawal in 2021 marked the end of the longest U.S. war, sparking controversy over its execution and outcomes.

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[Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq, 2002](https://www.congress.gov/bill/107th-congress/house-joint-resolution/114)

The U.S. invaded Iraq under claims that Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMDs). Though Hussein was removed, the war led to a prolonged insurgency and sectarian violence. Approximately 4,497 American soldiers died. The war deeply polarized Americans, led to criticism over faulty intelligence regarding WMDs, and contributed to long-term instability in the Middle East. The financial cost was significant, with estimates exceeding $2 trillion.

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[Operation Inherent Resolve Reports](https://www.defense.gov/OIR/)

The U.S. and its allies launched military operations to counter the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria, primarily through airstrikes and support for local ground forces. At least 104 American soldiers have died. The war prolonged U.S. military involvement in the Middle East, affecting debates over military spending, counterterrorism policies, and refugee resettlement.