Causes of the American Revolution
The American Revolution (1765-1783) transformed thirteen colonies into an independent nation. What drove colonists to rebel against the world's most powerful empire?
Growing Apart
- Self-governing assemblies for 150 years
- Distance from Britain (3,000 miles, 6-8 weeks by ship)
- Growing population (2.5 million by 1776)
- Diverse economy independent of British control
British Taxation
After the expensive French and Indian War (1754-1763), Britain sought revenue from colonies:
Stamp Act (1765): Taxed all paper documents. Colonists protested: "No taxation without representation!"
Townshend Acts (1767): Taxed glass, lead, paint, tea. Colonists boycotted British goods.
Tea Act (1773): Gave East India Company monopoly. Colonists dumped tea in Boston Harbor.
British Overreach
- Closed Boston port
- Revoked Massachusetts self-governance
- Quartered soldiers in private homes
Instead of isolating Massachusetts, these acts united the colonies.
Enlightenment Ideas
- John Locke: Natural rights (life, liberty, property); consent of the governed
- Montesquieu: Separation of powers
- Rousseau: Social contract
If government violated natural rights, people could overthrow it.
The Break
1775: Fighting began at Lexington and Concord.
- All men are created equal
- Inalienable rights from the Creator
- Government derives power from consent
- Right to alter or abolish tyrannical government
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