War Room’s Steve Bannon Discusses 250th Anniversary of “The Shot Heard Round the World” with Independent Historian Patrick K. O’Donnell (VIDEO) |

As we approach significant historical milestones, such as the 250th anniversary of the pivotal moment known as “The shot heard round the world” on April 19, 2025, it becomes crucial to engage in reflection about the sacrifices made by those who came before us. Events like the battles of Lexington and Concord are not merely relics of the past; they are reminders of the struggles that shaped our present.

In a recent episode of War Room, Steve Bannon hosted independent historian Patrick K. O’Donnell to delve into the events that transpired on that fateful day in 1775.

“As the British approach Concord Bridge, they are on a mission to reach the farmhouses where the weapons are stored, correct?” Bannon inquired.

“Exactly,” O’Donnell responded. “The British believe that the majority of weapons are hidden at a tavern in Concord. Commanding officer Smith and his officers storm the establishment, breaking down the locked door. They confront the tavern owner at gunpoint, demanding to know where the cannons are concealed.”

O’Donnell elaborated that under duress, the tavern owner led the troops to four buried cannons—24-pounders—only to have the British spike them and initiate a search for any remaining arms and supplies.

“The British had plans to incinerate these weapons, but their bonfire spiraled out of control, prompting a frantic effort to extinguish the flames,” O’Donnell recounted. “While the British soldiers scavenged for supplies, they found very little, thanks to the foresight of Revere and other Patriot leaders who had warned the townsfolk days in advance, prompting many to bury their valuables.”

“This is where the iconic ‘shot heard round the world’ occurs,” O’Donnell continued. “The British troops commanded the militia to disperse.”

“What followed was revolutionary: the British regulars fired the first shots. Two shots rang out, but instead of retreating, the Americans held their ground. What is truly remarkable is that these elite British troops began to falter, retreating from the bridge,” he explained.

“As they retreated, they faced heavy losses, but right there, against one of the toughest armies in Europe, American farmers and mechanics stood firm at Concord Bridge, effectively breaking the British ranks,” Bannon noted.

“There was a dispersion from both sides after that,” O’Donnell concluded.

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