1. The American Revolution

2. Britain and Its American Colonies How were the colonies governed? 1700s: British colonies grew in population and wealth, much trade with Europe 13 colonies basically self-governed See themselves less and less as British subjects BUT! Parliament still passed laws to govern colonies…even passed a law to ban trade with any nation other than Britain.

3. (DISCUSSION QUESTION) How did the colonists’ image of themselves clash with their status as colonists?

4. What caused Britain and America to grow apart?

5. French and Indian war cost $$$$ Parliament passed laws to tax colonists. Colonists became very angry. Had never before paid taxes directly to British government. They had always paid to their local governments where they had been represented and consented to the taxes. Believed the British violated their rights!

7. “We’re Angry! … now what?” 1765 – Americans boycott (wont buy) British goods “Take back your tea and taxes or we’ll tar and feather you and shove them down your throat!”

8. It WORKED! Britain lost too much money in trade. Result? Parliament repealed (took back) the law Fine! Okay! We’re losing too much $$ - we will stop our taxes!

9. Britain and America continue to grow apart.

10. (DISCUSSION QUESTION) Name some of the steps that led to the American Revolution

11. 1776: Colonists announce they are independent of Britain. DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE! Based on Enlightenment ideas: All Men Created Equal Life, Liberty, Pursuit of Happiness Written by Thomas Jefferson.

13. 1775 – 1781 Revolutionary War Colonists: poorly equipped army but home turf and France helps in the end Vs. Britain: one of most powerful nations in world Oh… It’s ON! Americans Fight for Independence

14. American Revolutionaries British Redcoats

15. WINNER? 1783 Britain signs a treaty to recognize the independent United States of America COLONISTS / AMERICANS!

17. United States Constitution - Important ideas from the Enlightenment used in its creation: Montesquieu: Separation of powers: System of checks and balances. Each branch able to prevent other branch from abusing power.

19. Executive branch– enforces laws (President) Legislative branch – makes laws (Congress) Judicial branch – interprets laws (Courts/Judges)

22. Federal System: power divided between national and state governments.

23. (DISCUSSION QUESTION) How does the Constitution Divide Power? - There are TWO different ways!

24. United States Constitution - Important ideas from the Enlightenment used in its creation: Locke: power comes from the consent of the people. “We the people”

25. Voltaire Freedom of speech & religious tolerance

26. Beccaria: The accused have rights No torture

27. Rousseau: Direct Democracy: Public Election of President and Congress