Causes of the American Revolution

Flashcards about the reasons for the American Revolution

What was the extent of the British Empire in North America by the 1760s?

By the 1760s, the British had gained an overseas empire in North America, controlling a large area from the Atlantic to the Mississippi, divided into 13 colonies.

What significant event occurred in 1776 involving the 13 British colonies in North America?

In 1776, the 13 colonies declared independence from Britain, forming the United States of America.

What was the prevailing belief among American colonists that contrasted with the British class system?

The American colonists, mainly businessmen from plantations, believed in equality and the idea that anyone could succeed, which clashed with the British class system.

Why did the American colonists begin to dislike being governed by Britain?

Colonists resented being governed by men far away in Britain who had inherited their wealth, leading to a desire to be independent from the British Empire.

What were the Navigation Acts, and how did they affect the American colonists?

The Navigation Acts (1651-73) restricted American colonies to only importing and exporting goods with British ships to and from British ports, which enriched Britain but caused resentment among the colonists.

What goods did the British seize?

When American colonists tried to import cheaper goods from other countries the British seized any smugglers.

What types of taxes were imposed on the American colonists by the British government?

Colonists were taxed heavily on goods like glass, coffee, wine, and sugar, and also had to pay the Stamp Act tax on official documents contributing to their desire for representation in the British parliament.

What did the colonists think about the taxes imposed on them?

Some colonists believed that if they were taxed so heavily, they should have representatives in the British parliament, and have a say in British government.