The American Revolution Part Two Why was the Continental Army able to defeat the British army? vs.

The Road to War Colonists form their own congress, British troops open fire on American militia in Lexington, Massachusetts – final straw! July 4th, 1776: American colonists sign the Declaration of Independence breaking away from Britain The main author was Thomas Jefferson, who was inspired by Locke Locke ideas in the declaration: “All Men Are Created Equal”, “and “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” British were not going to let their colonies go without a fight Continental congress votes to form an army and go to war w/ British As the war begins it looks like Britain will have an easy victory VS

The Revolution Begins Washington’s Continental Army Cornwallis’ British Army Poorly equipped Lots of equipment Poorly trained King’s best soldiers Underrated General Over-confident General Used new techniques in fighting (Guerilla Warfare) Used traditional fighting techniques Had help from the French Had no foreign help Motivation (defending home turf) No motivation (foreign land)

America Wins! 1781: Cornwallis surrenders to Washington Video Clips: 1. Describe how colonists do when they fight traditionally? 2. Describe the guerilla warfare techniques used by the colonists? 3. How do the French help the Americans win the war? America Wins! British citizens no longer wanted to pay for the war Over-confident British Generals make numerous mistakes America’s win shocks the world, they beat the mighty British Empire This event will inspire other revolutions throughout the world including France & Latin America 1781: Cornwallis surrenders to Washington