American Revolution

Definition

The American Revolution was a colonial revolt against British rule from 1765 to 1783 that led to the establishment of the United States of America. This conflict emerged as the American colonies sought independence, driven by Enlightenment ideas emphasizing individual rights and government by consent, which are core principles of classical liberalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The revolution was fueled by resistance to British taxation without representation, leading to widespread protests and the formation of groups like the Sons of Liberty.
2. Key battles included Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown, with the latter marking a decisive victory for the American forces.
3. The revolution resulted in the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which formally recognized American independence and established borders for the new nation.
4. Influential thinkers such as Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin promoted ideas of liberty and equality that were integral to classical liberalism during this period.
5. The outcomes of the revolution laid the foundation for democratic governance in America, emphasizing principles like individual rights and limited government.

Review Questions

• How did Enlightenment ideas influence the motivations behind the American Revolution?
  • Enlightenment ideas played a crucial role in motivating the American Revolution by promoting concepts such as individual rights, government accountability, and social contracts. Thinkers like John Locke argued that people have inherent rights to life, liberty, and property, which should be protected by governments formed with their consent. These principles inspired colonists to challenge British authority and demand independence when they felt their rights were being violated.
• Evaluate how the Declaration of Independence reflects classical liberalism and its core values.
  • The Declaration of Independence embodies classical liberalism through its emphasis on individual rights, equality, and government derived from the consent of the governed. It asserts that all men are created equal and possess unalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. By articulating these principles, the Declaration not only justified the colonies' break from Britain but also established a philosophical foundation for a new nation grounded in liberal values.
• Analyze the long-term implications of the American Revolution on global movements for democracy and self-determination.
  • The American Revolution set a precedent for global movements advocating for democracy and self-determination by showcasing that colonial subjects could successfully challenge imperial powers. Its ideals resonated across Europe and Latin America, inspiring revolutions such as the French Revolution and various independence movements in South America. The emphasis on individual liberties, democratic governance, and rejection of tyranny became influential in shaping modern democratic societies worldwide, highlighting how one nation's struggle for freedom can inspire others to pursue similar goals.

Related terms

Declaration of Independence: A document adopted on July 4, 1776, declaring the thirteen American colonies as independent states, free from British rule, and articulating the Enlightenment ideals of liberty and equality.

Social Contract: A philosophical concept that suggests individuals consent to form governments that protect their rights, emphasizing that legitimate authority arises from the will of the governed.

Federalism: A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units, exemplified by the U.S. Constitution's establishment of federalism after the revolution.