American Revolution

Definition

The American Revolution was a colonial revolt that took place between 1765 and 1783, where the Thirteen American Colonies rejected British rule, leading to the founding of the United States of America. This revolution was characterized by the fight for independence, fueled by Enlightenment ideas about democracy, liberty, and individual rights, and inspired a wave of revolutionary movements worldwide, including in France.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Revolution began in response to British taxation without representation, leading to growing unrest among the colonies and ultimately calls for independence.
2. Key battles during the revolution included the Battles of Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown, with Saratoga often cited as a turning point due to its role in securing French support for the colonists.
3. The American Revolution not only established the United States but also set an example for other countries seeking independence and democratic reforms in the years that followed.
4. The revolution was marked by significant contributions from diverse groups, including women, enslaved people, and Native Americans, who played critical roles despite often being excluded from the post-revolutionary political landscape.
5. The Treaty of Paris in 1783 officially ended the war, recognizing American independence and establishing borders for the new nation.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations behind the American Revolution?
  • Enlightenment ideas emphasized concepts such as liberty, equality, and democracy, which greatly influenced the motivations behind the American Revolution. Thinkers like John Locke argued for natural rights and government by consent, which resonated with colonists who felt oppressed by British rule. These principles became central to revolutionary rhetoric and ultimately found expression in foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence.
• Discuss the significance of key battles during the American Revolution and how they shaped public support for independence.
  • Key battles such as Lexington and Concord demonstrated colonial resolve against British authority and sparked widespread support for independence among colonists. The Battle of Saratoga was pivotal as it not only marked a major victory for American forces but also convinced France to ally with the colonies, significantly boosting morale and resources. The ultimate victory at Yorktown solidified this support and highlighted that independence was achievable, leading to increased enlistment and funding for the cause.
• Evaluate the impact of the American Revolution on subsequent revolutionary movements worldwide, particularly in France.
  • The American Revolution had a profound impact on subsequent revolutionary movements around the globe, particularly in France. The successful overthrow of British rule inspired French revolutionaries who sought similar ideals of liberty and equality against their monarchy. The French Revolution adopted many principles seen in the American fight for independence, showcasing how ideas about democracy could transcend borders. Additionally, both revolutions sparked debates about rights and governance that resonated with various independence movements in Latin America and beyond.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: A document adopted on July 4, 1776, declaring the colonies' independence from Britain, which articulated the principles of individual rights and government by consent.

Federalism: A political system where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, which became a key aspect of the U.S. government established after the revolution.

French Revolution:

A period of radical social and political upheaval in France from 1789 to 1799 that was influenced by the American Revolution and shared similar revolutionary ideals.