The American Revolution

What was the American Revolution?

The American Revolution broke out after tensions had increased over British economic and political control in the American colonies, which resulted in the American War of Independence. The Americans colonists defeated the British and gained their independence to establish the United States of America.

When was the American Revolution?

The American Revolution took place between 1775 and 1783.

Who was king during the American Revolution?

George III was king during the American Revolution.

What caused the American Revolution?

There were four key causes of the American Revolution:

• ❖ By 1775, 2.5 million people lived in the 13 colonies ruled by Britain, but they were not represented in the British Parliament. Their slogan was: 'No taxation without representation.'.
• ❖ Britain continued to impose further taxes and duties on the colonies, such as the Stamp Act.
• ❖ The Navigation Acts meant they could only trade with Britain.
• ❖ In 1773, the Boston Tea Party occurred when the colonists dumped British tea into the sea in protest at taxes.

What happened in the American Revolution?

There were seven key events of the American Revolution:

• ❖ The war began on 19th April, 1775, with the Lexington Incident.
• ❖ The Americans made George Washington their general. He would later become their first President.
• ❖ On 4th July, 1776, Congress met to declare themselves independent from Britain. This is why the USA celebrates Independence Day on 4th July every year.
• ❖ Fighting continued until 1783. The rebels received support from the French, and their use of guerrilla tactics made it difficult for the British to defeat them.
• ❖ The British used German mercenaries. This alienated the colonists further, as the British were using foreigners to fight against their own people.
• ❖ In 1781, the British general, Lord Cornwallis, was forced to surrender at Yorktown. This was a humiliating defeat for the British.
• ❖ On the 3rd September, 1783, the Treaty of Paris formally ended the war, and America was declared independent.

Who helped the Americans in the American Revolution?

The American colonists were helped by the French.

What was British opinion on the American Revolution?

Opinion in Britain was divided. Some radicals, such as merchants in Bristol, urged the king to give the American colonists freedom as they thought this would protect trade. However, many felt the colonies owed Britain a great deal and should be more appreciative.

What is the significance of the American Revolution?

The American Revolution was significant for four key reasons:

• ❖ It was a rejection of royal authority and inspired others like the French, in 1789, and eventually India in 1947, to break away from their monarchs.
• ❖ It reflected the new democratic ideals were emerging, and that people had inherent rights like freedom of speech.
• ❖ It established a successful form of democratic government and a constitution that is still followed in America today.
• ❖ The American colonies were important to the British Empire, but India would become the 'jewel in the crown' of the British Empire.