American colonies' break

Definition

The American colonies' break refers to the process through which the thirteen American colonies declared independence from British rule, culminating in the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This pivotal event marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War and set the stage for the creation of a new nation built on principles of liberty and self-governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tensions between the American colonies and Britain escalated due to taxation without representation, leading to events like the Boston Tea Party.
2. The First Continental Congress met in 1774 to address colonial grievances, while the Second Continental Congress convened in 1775 and took on greater powers, including military decisions.
3. The Declaration of Independence was largely drafted by Thomas Jefferson and emphasized Enlightenment ideals, asserting that all men are created equal with unalienable rights.
4. The break was not universally supported; loyalists in the colonies remained loyal to Britain, creating divisions within colonial society.
5. The outcome of the Revolutionary War was formalized with the Treaty of Paris in 1783, recognizing American independence and establishing borders for the new nation.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations behind the American colonies' break from British rule?
  • Enlightenment ideas greatly influenced the motivations behind the American colonies' break from British rule by emphasizing concepts such as individual rights, liberty, and government by consent. Philosophers like John Locke argued that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed, leading colonists to challenge British authority when their rights were infringed upon. These ideas were prominently featured in documents like the Declaration of Independence, which articulated a vision of a government that serves its people.
• Analyze the role of key events leading up to the American colonies' break from Britain and how they shaped colonial attitudes toward independence.
  • Key events such as the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party played crucial roles in shaping colonial attitudes toward independence by demonstrating British oppression and galvanizing public opinion against British rule. The Intolerable Acts further united colonists in their resistance efforts, as they viewed these measures as direct attacks on their rights. The combination of economic hardship due to taxation without representation and growing resentment toward British authority fueled a desire for independence among many colonists.
• Evaluate the impact of foreign assistance during the Revolutionary War on the success of the American colonies' break from Britain.
  • Foreign assistance during the Revolutionary War significantly impacted the success of the American colonies' break from Britain by providing crucial military support and resources. France's entry into the war in 1778 brought experienced troops and naval power, which proved vital during key battles like Yorktown. Additionally, other nations like Spain and Holland provided financial aid and supplies. This international support not only bolstered American military efforts but also helped legitimize their cause for independence on a global stage.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence:

A document adopted on July 4, 1776, proclaiming the colonies' separation from Great Britain and outlining the principles of individual rights and government by consent.

Continental Congress: A governing body formed by representatives from the colonies that coordinated resistance against British rule and ultimately declared independence.

Revolutionary War:

A conflict between Great Britain and the thirteen American colonies from 1775 to 1783, resulting in American independence and the establishment of the United States.