What term is used to refer to the individuals who led the American Revolution and established the United States?

The term "Founding Fathers" is used to refer to the influential leaders and figures who played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and the establishment of the United States. This group typically includes individuals like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and others who were instrumental in drafting key documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. The Founding Fathers are celebrated for their vision and leadership, which laid the foundation of the nation and embodied the values of liberty, democracy, and republicanism.

While the other terms refer to significant concepts and groups related to this period, they do not encompass the same breadth of historical influence as "Founding Fathers." The Framers of the Constitution specifically refers to those who wrote the Constitution, the Patriots were those who rebelled against British rule, and the Continental Congress was the governing body that coordinated the colonies' efforts during the Revolutionary War. In contrast, "Founding Fathers" captures not only the leaders of the revolution but also those who helped define the principles and practices of the new government.