1. Ideas Help Start a Revolution
Chapter 4 Section 2
Ideas Help Start a Revolution

2. The Olive Branch Petition
Still Hoping For Peace
The Olive Branch Petition
July 8, 1775
2nd Continental Congress sends last chance letter to persuade for peace and a “return to former harmony”
King George III tears it up, declaring the colonists openly in rebellion
He orders a naval blockade of East Coast

3. Thomas Paine’s Common Sense
Power of Propaganda
Thomas Paine’s Common Sense
Written by Paine, an inspired colonist
Urges all colonists to proclaim independence
Declares British king a tyrant
500,000 copies widely distributed and read throughout the colonies
Propaganda inspires many to become patriots

4. Declaration of Independence
June 1776 – 2nd Continental Congress debates and organizes committee to draft a document proclaiming their views
Thomas Jefferson chosen for his word skills
Influenced by English philosopher John Locke (people have natural rights)
Adopted July 4, 1776; the Liberty Bell rings

5. Whose Side Are You On? Colonists now had to choose sides…
Patriots – supported independence and a full break from Britain
Loyalists – professed loyalty to the Crown and opposed independence
This Revolution truly became a “civil war” as countrymen now were in a position to fight each other as much as Britain’s armies