American Revolution

Definition

The American Revolution was a colonial revolt that took place between 1765 and 1783, where the thirteen American colonies fought for independence from British rule. This conflict not only resulted in the formation of a new nation but also set the stage for significant political and social changes, laying the groundwork for the creation of the U.S. Constitution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Revolution was sparked by growing tensions over British taxation without representation, leading to protests like the Boston Tea Party.
2. Key battles during the revolution included Lexington and Concord, Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, each playing a vital role in the outcome of the conflict.
3. International support was crucial; France provided military assistance and recognition to the colonies, helping turn the tide against Britain.
4. The Treaty of Paris in 1783 formally ended the war and recognized American independence, establishing borders for the new nation.
5. The revolution inspired subsequent movements for democracy and independence worldwide, showcasing Enlightenment ideals such as liberty and equality.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations and actions of those involved in the American Revolution?
  • Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke influenced revolutionaries with concepts such as natural rights and social contracts. These ideas motivated colonists to challenge British authority and assert their rights to life, liberty, and property. The application of these Enlightenment principles can be seen in documents like the Declaration of Independence, which emphasized that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.
• Discuss how the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation led to calls for a new Constitution after the American Revolution.
  • The Articles of Confederation created a weak central government that struggled to govern effectively due to lack of authority to tax and regulate commerce. This weakness resulted in financial instability and difficulties in dealing with internal uprisings like Shays' Rebellion. These issues highlighted the need for a stronger federal structure, leading to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 where delegates drafted a new Constitution that balanced power between state and federal governments.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of the American Revolution on modern democratic governance and its influence on other nations.
  • The American Revolution significantly shaped modern democratic governance by establishing principles of individual rights, representative government, and accountability. The success of this revolution served as a powerful example for other nations seeking independence or reform, inspiring revolutions in France, Latin America, and beyond. Additionally, it prompted discussions about civil liberties and rights that continue to influence constitutional democracies today.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: The formal statement adopted by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, declaring the freedom of the thirteen American colonies from British rule.

Articles of Confederation:

The first constitution of the United States, ratified in 1781, which established a weak central government and was eventually replaced by the current U.S. Constitution.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, a concept that was shaped significantly by the outcomes of the American Revolution.