American Revolution

Definition

The American Revolution was a colonial revolt that took place between 1765 and 1783, during which the thirteen American colonies overthrew British rule and established the United States of America. This significant event was driven by Enlightenment ideals, emphasizing liberty, democracy, and the notion of government based on the consent of the governed.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Revolution was fueled by increasing tensions over British taxation and lack of representation, famously summarized by the slogan 'No taxation without representation.'
2. Key battles such as Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown were critical in shaping the outcome of the Revolution, with Yorktown marking the decisive victory for American forces.
3. The Revolution led to the establishment of fundamental principles like natural rights and self-governance, which influenced later democratic movements worldwide.
4. The Treaty of Paris, signed in 1783, officially ended the war and recognized American independence while setting new borders for the fledgling nation.
5. The Articles of Confederation were initially created to govern the new nation but were soon deemed ineffective, leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution in 1787.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations behind the American Revolution?
  • Enlightenment ideas significantly influenced the American Revolution by promoting concepts such as liberty, equality, and democracy. Philosophers like John Locke argued for natural rights, which inspired colonists to challenge British authority and advocate for self-governance. The desire for a government that derived its power from the consent of the governed resonated deeply with revolutionaries, ultimately motivating their quest for independence.
• Evaluate the impact of key battles during the American Revolution on its overall outcome.
  • Key battles during the American Revolution, such as Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown, were instrumental in shaping its outcome. The Battle of Saratoga is often considered a turning point because it secured French support for the American cause. The decisive victory at Yorktown effectively ended major combat operations and forced Britain to negotiate peace. These battles not only bolstered American morale but also demonstrated their ability to challenge British military might.
• Analyze how the American Revolution set a precedent for future democratic movements around the world.
  • The American Revolution set a powerful precedent for future democratic movements by establishing principles such as individual rights, popular sovereignty, and representative government. The success of the Revolution inspired other nations grappling with tyranny to pursue their own paths to independence and democracy. The ideals expressed in documents like the Declaration of Independence resonated globally, influencing revolutions in France, Latin America, and beyond, showcasing that the quest for freedom and equality transcends borders.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: The document adopted on July 4, 1776, that proclaimed the colonies' independence from Britain and articulated the principles of individual rights and government accountability.

Continental Congress: A series of meetings held by representatives from the colonies that coordinated colonial resistance against British rule and eventually led to the declaration of independence.

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and individual states, which was a key feature in the formation of the United States after the Revolution.