Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Midnight Ride Alerts Colonists of British Troops

4/18/2026

27 6

Summary

Story summary

On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere and William Dawes embarked on a midnight ride to alert the residents of Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, about the approaching British troops. Their warning was crucial in mobilizing the local militia, setting the stage for the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War.

1 of 1

Story summary

On April 18, 1775, Paul Revere and William Dawes embarked on a midnight ride to alert the residents of Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts, about the approaching British troops. Their warning was crucial in mobilizing the local militia, setting the stage for the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War.