Causes of the Revolutionary War

The French and Indian War Lasted from 1754 – 1763 The British and colonists defeated the French and their Native American allies.

The French and Indian War OUTCOMES The colonists gained confidence in their ability to defend themselves. The war doubled England’s national debt. King George III wanted the colonists to help pay the cost with new taxes.

New Taxes for the Colonies The Sugar Act (1764) Colonists were forced to by sugar and molasses from England. They faced heavy taxes if they bought them from other countries. The British could search any ships coming to America from other countries.

New Taxes for the Colonies The Stamp Act (1765) Taxed most paper products (newspapers, books, legal documents, and even playing cards). Special stamps from the British had to be placed on all of these items. Some Americans boycotted the stamps, or refused to use items that needed the stamps.

New Taxes for the Colonies The Stamp Act (1765) The boycotts began to work. British merchants were losing money. A group called the “Sons of Liberty” staged (sometimes violent) protests in the streets. Eventually, the British repealed the act, but were angered by the colonists’ protests.

The Quartering Act (1765) The British sent thousands of soldiers to America to enforce the new taxes. Americans were expected to take care of the soldiers and let them live in their homes. Most Americans hated the new law.

“No taxation without representation!” The Townshend Acts (1767) Taxed paper, tea, glass, and paint that came from England. The colonists declared that the British had no right to tax them because they were not represented in Parliament. “No taxation without representation!”