Causes of the American Revolution

American Colonists Considered themselves British subjects Lifestyle and customs different than the British –No aristocracy –Could move in social classes A unique “American culture” developed New generations of Americans –Removed from British society –Never saw England

Influences on American Colonists Education –Strengthen the ecnomy –Movement in social classes –Democratic/independent thoughts –Feelings of superiority Enlightenment –Thinking based on reason –Separation of church and state –Questioned divine rights –Believed in natural rights –Questioned political Great Awakening –Christianity more ethnically diverse –Stressed equality and charity –Questioned religious and political authority

British Views of American Colonists Totally ignorant of American culture –Colonists economically sound –Formed large cities Believed –Crude and uncultured –Simple farmers –Boorish explorers

Colonists’ Beliefs Enjoyed self- government Set taxes and paid British government “No taxation without representation” Didn’t want the British government to interfere in their lives The British government didn’t understand colonial life The British government didn’t understand the hardships brought about by heavy taxation

British Beliefs American colonists should be loyal to British monarch They had the right to tax colonists The colonists should have to pay for their defense –During the French and Indian War –Afterwards as well

Events leading up to War French and Indian War of Proclamation Act of 1763 Stamp Act of 1765 Quartering Act of 1765 Townshend Acts of 1767 Boston Massacre of 1770 Tea Act and Boston Tea Party of 1773 Intolerable Acts of 1774

Who Made The Decisions? What Happened Next?

First Continental Congress Fall of 1774 Formed in response to British tyranny 12 out of 13 colonies sent delegates (representatives) Repeal (end) Intolerable Acts Create an militia (army) New boycott of British goods Make demands on the British government –Right to set their own taxes –Right to govern themselves

What will happen that will start a war?