What were the three largest colonial cities during the American Revolution?

First and foremost, Boston, Massachusetts was a key city since it was the site of early revolutionary activity. Such activities included the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770, the formation of the Sons of Liberty, the Boston Tea Party, the Siege of Boston, and the Boston campaign.

New York City, although occupied by England for the duration of the war after Washington withdrew his forces on September 15, 1776, was the site of intelligence networking conducted by Washington via the Culper Ring. Nathan Hale, a twenty-one year-old spy, was captured near Queens and executed. The infamous prison ships that held American prisoners of war were located on the shores of Brooklyn.

Quebec. Though the Americans failed to convince Canada to join their cause, it is where Benedict Arnold and Ethan Allen captured Fort Ticonderoga. This strategic capture allowed the Americans to invade Canada.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The revolutionary capital where Congress met and where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Also the place where the Pennsylvania campaign took place as the British attempted to recapture the city (General Howe eventually did).

Charleston, South Carolina. An important city in the Southern theater as the British attempted to control the Southern Colonies. The city was held under seige by Sir Henry Clinton in 1780.

Yorktown. The site of the last major battle of the Revolutionary War when Cornwallis surrendered to Washington.