British Rule the Colonies to Rebellion

DO NOW: What are the 3 general reasons why the colonists settled the new world?

September 11, 2013 Agenda: At the end of this lesson, you will… Describe colonial rule under the policy of salutary neglect. Explain the colonists reaction to harsh British policies. Discuss the influences and purpose of the Declaration of Independence.

Early British Rule Until 1763, Britain rule the colonies through salutary neglect. The colonies were allowed to rule themselves as long as they followed British laws. Britain had no resources to enforce laws Most were proud to be loyal British citizens

British Start to get Tough In 1763, the British issue the Proclamation of 1763, which forbid settling west of the Appalachian Mountains The British were also running out of money and looking for new sources of income.

Taxes, Taxes, Taxes In order to raise money for the struggling British government, Parliament began a series of taxes on the colonists. Sugar Act Stamp Act Townshend Act All of these taxes made the colonists angry and motivated them to take action.

Colonists Take Action All of the taxes and restrictions caused great tension in the colonies. Colonists began to boycott British goods. Boston Tea Party: colonists dumped British tea into Boston Harbor in protest After all of the protesting and no response from Parliament, the colonists resorted to violence.

Declaring Independence The battle for independence was a 2-front war. One front took place on the level of ideas. The colonists were rethinking the role of citizens and the government. They also considered the relationship between citizens and the government

Influence on Thought The colonists were influenced by 2 sources: Common Sense: a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine Convinced the colonists that a break from Great Britain was the only solution Enlightenment: emphasized science and reason to improve society Taught colonists to question their leaders and think for themselves

The Declaration of Independence 4 Parts: Introduction Explains thought behind independence Political Ideas Natural “Inalienable” Rights: Life, Liberty Pursuit of Happiness Influence by John Locke If government violated the natural rights, citizens may revolt and replace the government List of wrongs committed by the king Formal declaration of independence Explained what the colonists wanted – to be free