Canada’s little-known role in helping to spur American independence in 1776

A John Trumbull painting of the death of Gen. Richard Montgomery in Quebec on Dec. 31, 1775, during the American war of independence. DeAgostini/Getty Images

Strange as it is to say, the U.S. Declaration of Independence has deep roots in Canada.

That assertion may come as a surprise to people in the United States ahead of its 250th anniversary. The common narrative is fixated upon 1776, the 13 rebelling Colonies and the bold military actions of Founding Fathers such as George Washington.