1.  An explanation of the colonists actions to the world.  Rationalization for themselves.  A list of grievances against GB.  Formal declaration of Independence.

2.  Written almost entirely by Thomas Jefferson.  Based on ideas of John Locke.  40% of the colonists supported revolution.

3.  Defensive War ◦ We can get what we want without defeating the British. ◦ Used as a last resort. ◦ Huge amount of sacrifice. ◦ History proves this tactic as sound.

4.  Defensive War  Geographically familiar.  Short supply lines.  More motivated.  George Washington  France as an ally.

5.  GB is most powerful nation.  No formally trained army.  Little or no navy.  No allies in the beginning.  Weak central govt.  British Blockade.

6.  Divide and Conquer  Do not ravage the country side  Defeat Continental Army  Large insurgent population remained  Though many remained loyal

7.  Minutemen ◦ Ready at a moments notice ◦ Provided their own arms  Militia: ◦ Long standing tradition in the colonies ◦ Not well suit for long campaigns ◦ Not well trained.

8.  Guerilla Warfare: ◦ Training ◦ Numbers ◦ Style ◦ Leadership ◦ Skills

9.  230,000 different men served at one time or another.  Land grants used to lure recruits.  Free blacks welcomed into service despite Washington’s orders to the contrary.

10.  Musket:  Rifle:  Grapeshot:  Cannon:

16.  April 19,1775  “shot heard around the world.”  First Fighting of the war.  American Victory.

17.  June 17,1775  British “victory”  Continental Army can stand up to the British and make a good account.

18.  October 19, 1777  American Victory  Ends the losing streak  France becomes an ally  “turning point”

19.  October 6-19, 1781  French Navy important part.  Ends the fighting for the most part in the east.  British still occupy New York, Savannah and Charleston

20.  US is independent  Set the boundaries of the US  Westward expansion is possible now  US has the potential to grow into a world power due to sizes and resources available.