1. A Split in Colonial Opinion

2. Lack of colonial unity
1775, the colonists were neither prepared for nor united behind fighting a war with England
The Revolution would encompass two struggles
Obviously a military struggle with Great Britain
Also, a domestic political struggle
Once fighting began opinions ranged from complete independence to no change in the imperial relationship at all
Extremists on the side of absolute independence were led by John and Samuel Adams
Those in favor of moderate reforms with the British were led by such moderates as John Dickenson of Pennsylvania

3. Olive Branch Petition
Within a month of Lexington and Concord, the Second Continental Congress met and attempted reconciliation with Britain through the Olive Branch Petition
This sought out peace with Britain by meeting terms of an agreement
King’s response was to destroy the rebellion by force and brute military strength
Recruited slaves, Indians and mercenaries as soldiers

4. Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms
Second declaration by the Continental Congress which declared just how necessary a war for total independence was
These two declarations, done very close to one another, greatly demonstrate the split between colonists on the decision for war

5. Imperial power begins to dwindle in the colonies
Thomas Paine “Common Sense”
Attempted to turn colonial opinions away from the specific actions of Parliament and toward the government institution itself
Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence
Adopted July 4, 1776, Congress adopted Jefferson’s work
Borrowed heavily from John Locke
Governments were formed to protect the rights of life, liberty and property
Second part, Jefferson listed alleged crimes by the king, or the breaking of that contract