The American Revolution How did the Continental Army defeat the British army? vs.

I. The Road to War A. 1775: Colonists form Continental Congress, British troops open fire on American militia in Lexington, Massachusetts B. July 4th, 1776: Declaration of Independence signed C. The main author was Thomas Jefferson = inspired by Locke 1. Locke ideas in the declaration: “All Men Are Created Equal”, “and “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness” D. Continental Congress votes to form an army and go to war w/ Britain E. As the war begins, it looks like Britain will have an easy victory VS.

II. 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)

1781: British Surrender at Yorktown 1. Describe the guerilla warfare techniques used by the colonists. 2. How was Cornwallis trapped at Yorktown, what is his reaction? 3. How do the French help the Americans win the war? III. ‘Murica Wins! A. British citizens no longer wanted to pay for the war B. Over-confident British Generals make numerous mistakes C. America’s win shocks the world 1. inspires other revolutions in France & Latin America 1781: British Surrender at Yorktown