American Revolution (1775-1783)

Definition

The American Revolution was a colonial revolt against British rule that took place between 1775 and 1783, resulting in the establishment of the United States of America. This conflict was driven by Enlightenment ideas about liberty, individual rights, and the rejection of monarchy, leading to significant social, political, and economic changes in both America and the wider world during the Industrial Age.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The revolution began with events like the Boston Tea Party and Lexington and Concord, as colonists protested against taxation without representation.
2. Key figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin played crucial roles in leading the revolution and shaping the new nation.
3. The conflict was marked by significant battles like Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, with foreign allies such as France providing support to the American cause.
4. The Treaty of Paris in 1783 officially ended the war, recognizing American independence and establishing boundaries for the new nation.
5. The revolution inspired other movements worldwide, including the French Revolution, as it demonstrated that a population could successfully overthrow an oppressive regime.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations behind the American Revolution?
  • Enlightenment ideas were crucial in motivating the American Revolution by promoting concepts of liberty, individual rights, and government accountability. Thinkers like John Locke argued that governments derived their power from the consent of the governed, which inspired colonists to challenge British authority. These philosophical principles fueled desires for self-governance and equality, ultimately leading to revolutionary actions against perceived tyranny.
• In what ways did the Declaration of Independence reflect the revolutionary sentiments of the time?
  • The Declaration of Independence encapsulated revolutionary sentiments by asserting fundamental rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It articulated grievances against King George III, emphasizing the colonists' desire for self-determination and governance. This document not only proclaimed independence but also established a framework for democracy and individual rights that influenced future political thought globally.
• Evaluate how the outcomes of the American Revolution laid the groundwork for future changes in governance and societal structures during the Industrial Age.
  • The American Revolution resulted in a shift from monarchical rule to a democratic republic, establishing principles like federalism and separation of powers that influenced governance models worldwide. As new ideas about citizenship and rights emerged, they paved the way for greater participation in government and challenges to traditional hierarchies. Additionally, these foundational changes coincided with industrial advancements, leading to economic transformations that shaped modern societal structures by promoting capitalism and individual entrepreneurship.

Related terms

Enlightenment:

An intellectual movement in Europe that emphasized reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority, influencing revolutionary ideas and events.

Declaration of Independence:

A document adopted in 1776 that proclaimed the thirteen American colonies' independence from British rule, articulating the principles of freedom and equality.

Federalism: A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, which became a fundamental principle of the new American government post-revolution.