1. Essay Question Consider the fact that the American Revolution was America’s first civil war. With that in mind, explain why it was not easy to win the war and also explain why the Patriots finally did win the war.

2. The American Revolution America’s First Civil War

3. Thesis More Americans were indifferent to independence, or actually opposed to the cause, than supported it. Consequently there were many difficulties in achieving independence.

4. Background to Revolution Reaction to Independence –Tories or Loyalists Early phase of the Revolution –Continental Army –Hessians

7. American Advantages Geography Climate Cumbersome British Army Poor British leadership British red-tape Logistical problems

15. American Disadvantages Lack of military experience –Marquis de Lafayette –Baron von Steuben –Count Pulaski High rates of desertion Mutinies

16. Turning Points of the War Saratoga –General Johnny Burgoyne Southern Campaign –General Charles Cornvallis Yorktown

17. Peace Negotiations Negotiators –Benjamin Franklin –John Adams –John Jay Outsmarting France Peace of Paris