Studied by 0 peopleWho was William Pitt?
Member of Parliament in 1757 who helped win the 7 Years War by sending 25,000 troops to America and providing subsidies for Prussia to preoccupy the French in Europe.
Who was James Wolfe?
Led the soldiers in the 7 Years War sent by Pitt to America, and had fought in the Austrian War of Succession. He died during the battle to capture Quebec, which was successful.
Who was Thomas Paine?
Author of Common Sense (1776) which was arguably the beginning of a widespread wish for independence.
Who was John Locke?
Widely associated with the Enlightenment movement, and had the view that people naturally required life, liberty and property, and that governments should be created to ensure this. He also opposed the belief in the divine right of kings.
Who was Thomas Jefferson?
Primary author of the Declaration of Independence, and later went on to become the 3rd President of the United States.
Who was John Wilkes?
A radical British MP who criticised the king in 1763, was arrested and then fled to France. Later, in 1768, he was arrested when he returned to England, and a crowd of 30,000 gathered to demand his release. 6 were killed and 20 injured when troops fired into the crowd. To Americans, this displayed the corruption of the British government and many state assemblies raised money to help.
Who was Charles Townshend?
Chancellor of the Exchequer, he was best known for putting taxes on glass, lead, paint, paper, and tea. He also enforced the Quartering Act, but New York opposed leading to the creation of the New York Restraining Act in 1767.
Who was John Dickinson?
Philadelphian lawyer who wrote the Letters of a Pennsylvania Farmer in 1968 as a response to the Townshend duties. He went on to be largely responsible for the Articles of Confederaton.
Who was Sam Adams?
Important member of the radical group Sons of Liberty who opposed the Stamp Act. He later helped plan the Boston Tea Party and oppose the Coercive Acts before becoming a member of the Continental Congress.
Who was John Adams?
Cousin to Sam Adams. Defended the soldiers at the Boston Massacre. Sat in the First and Second Continental Congress and later became president. He also helped secure the Treaty of Paris.
Who was George Grenville?
Prime Minister from 1763 and was responsible for creating the Proclamation Line, having anti-smuggling measures, and issuing the Sugar, Currency and Stamp Acts. Backlash to the Stamp Act led to his dismissal in 1765.
Who was Patrick Henry?
A Virginian lawyer who opposed the Stamp Act with his Virginia Resolved in 1765 (5/7 published) and the 1787 Constitution later on. He served in the first Continental Congress.
Who was George Washington?
Led an unsuccessful mission to Fort Duquesne in 1754 and later headed the Continental Army after being elected into the First Continental Congress. He served as President of the Philadelphia Convention before becoming the first president of the USA.
Who was Richard Montgomery?
Failed attack on Quebec in 1775 with 1200 men, but success at taking Montreal. He was joined by Benedict Arnold, but they were both defeated (Montgomery killed) by British troops who then left Montreal.
Who was William Howe?
Fought in the War of Austrian Succession and became commander-in-chief of the British army in North American in 1775. He won many battles between 1776-1777, such as in New York but began to lose at Trenton and Princeton before not having a decisive victory in Philadelphia (which he had attcked instead of assisting Burgoyne at Saratoga as he was expected to). His older brother was Admiral Lord Richard Howe who was in overall command.
Who was Clinton?
Member of the House of Commons and served as British commander-in chief between 1778-1782 after Howe. He spent most of his time focusing on New York and evacuated Philadelphia. He also sent troops South to besiege it.
Who was Burgoyne?
A member of the House of Commons, Burgoyne was the main one responsible for the British failure at Saratoga in 1777 as he was forced to surrender when Howe didn’t come to his aid.
Who was Tarleton?
He besieged the Carolinas alongside Cornwallis and was responsible for the defeat of 350 Virginians at Waxhaw Creek in May 1780. He was brutal and his men butchered many of the surrendered Virginians. He was defeated in 1781 by Daniel Morgan who held position in the Carolinas for Nathanael Greene.
Who was Cornwallis?
Joined the army in 1757. He led the siege in the Carolinas with Tarleton. Was going to drive Greene out of the Carolinas in 1781 but went to Yorktown instead where he then surrendered, leading to the end of the war.
Who was Greene?
Washington’s chosen successor who was responsible for taking back the South right before the end of the war. He had also led earlier resistance at Rhode Island.
Who was Robert Morris?
Merchant who sat in the Second Continental Congress and provided supplies for the Continental army. He was in charge of finance and created the Bank of America but it failed in 1784. He served in the Senate, supporting Hamilton’s financial scheme, but later declared bankruptcy.
Who was John Jay?
Helped negotiate peace after the war, served in Congress, helped write the Federalist Papers and became the first chief justice of the US Supreme Court. Most notable for his controversial treaty in 1794 where he made a deal with the British that led to Republican uproar.
Who was James Madison?
Served in Congress and played major role in drafting the Constitution. He also wrote the Federalist Papers with Hamilton and Jay, served 4 terms in the House of Representatives, was Jeffersons secretary of state and became President of the USA in 1809.
Who was Benjamin Franklin?
Believed in Enlightenment. Sat in the Pennsylvania Assembly, Second Continental Congress and helped draw up the Declaration of Independence along with the Constitution. He was also significant in bringing France into the War of Independence (the most important ally).
Who was Alexander Hamilton?
Aided Washington and played a major role in the siege of Yorktown in 1781 before he served in Congress. He represented New York in the Philadelphia Convention and published the Federalist Papers. He became secretary of the treasury and had a financial plan to create a national bank (much like Morris had attempted) which was successful in helping stabilist the newly emerging economy.
Who was Citizen Genet?
French ambassador who came over during the French Revolution and had overly radical views to the point where it risked America’s neutralism on the Revolution as Genet organised a Jacobin Club and created tension when he broke a promise to not outfit a British ship as a French privateer. He wanted asylum in the USA as he risked the guillotine in France. His views inspired many to protest for war against Britain.
What was salutary neglect?
British colonial policy of loose enforcement of trade laws on American colonies, leading to self-governance.
What was the Great Awakening?
The "Great Awakening" was a religious revival in the American colonies during the 1730s and 1740s, emphasising individual spiritual experience and a personal connection with God.
Why was Fort Duquesne so important?
Established in 1754, Fort Duquesne controlled the Ohio River Valley, a strategic area for trade and military control during the French and Indian War. In 1754, Washington attacked and surrendered. Britain then sent General Braddock and 2000 troops; he was killed and his army routed. It was the first blood of the French-Indian War,
What was the Stamp Act?
The Stamp Act was a British law in 1765 that required American colonists to pay a tax on every piece of printed paper they used. It led to outrage and opposition from groups like the Loyal Nine and the Sons of Liberty, along with Samuel Adams.
What were the Virginia Resolves?
The Virginia Resolves were a series of resolutions suggested by Patrick Henry in 1765, protesting the Stamp Act and asserting colonists' rights to self-governance. The five passed were:
Colonists possessed the rights of Englishmen
Colonists rights were guaranteed by royal charter
‘No taxation without representation.’
Laws had to be consented to
The House of Burgesses ONLY could tax Virginians
Explain the role of the Sons of Liberty in coordinating opposition to the Stamp Act?
They organised protests, boycotts, and demonstrations against the British government's imposition of the tax. They used tactics such as intimidation through hanging effagies and attacking the house of Thomas Hutchinson, propaganda, and public outcry to rally support and resist the Stamp Act.
Why was the impact of the Sons of Liberty limited?
Only 5% of the population lived in urban areas, where the majority of their activity took place. Therefore, it was difficult for them to fulfil their role as informers of politics to the general public.
What were the Townshend Duties?
Taxes imposed on glass, lead, paints, paper, and tea in the American colonies by British Chancellor of the Exchequer Charles Townshend in 1767 in order to raise $40,000 a year.
Explain the role of John Dickinson?
John Dickinson was a Founding Father who wrote "Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania" (1768) protesting British policies. He advocated for colonial rights and unity along with ‘no taxation without representation’.
What was the War of Austrian Succession?
The War of Austrian Succession was a conflict in mid-18th century Europe over Maria Theresa's inheritance of Habsburg lands, involving major powers like Britain and France. There was fighting in America, and Lousiburg was captured in 1745 before being returned in 1747 through the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.
What was the Seven Years War?
The Seven Years War (1756-1763) was in Europe, North America and India. Britain and Prussia defeated France, Spain and Austria. William Pitt played a major part in the success as he reimbursed the colonies, and paid Prussia to fight in Europe. The British captured Fort Lousiburg in 1755, allowing Quebec to be captured. The Treaty of Paris ended the war and France had to give all colonies to Britain.
What was the Albany Congress?
The Albany Congress was a meeting in 1754 to discuss colonial unity against the French during the French and Indian War and discuss Native American policy. Benjamin Franklin proposed the Albany Plan of Union, which was rejected (start of unification being suggested).
What was the Boston Massacre?
Tension began after the death of an 11y.o boy on 22nd February in a riot, which was publicised by the Sons of Liberty. A fight arose on 2nd March between factory workers and soldiers. On March 5, 1770, British soldiers killed five colonists in Boston, leading to increased tensions between colonists and British troops. 8 soldiers were tried and all released after being defended by John Adams. This led to the repeal of the Townshend Duties.
What was the Proclamation Line?
The Proclamation Line, made in 1763 by PM Grenville, prohibited American colonists from settling west of the Appalachian Mountains to prevent conflicts with Native Americans. It came after Pontiac’s Rebellion in May where every post west of Niagara (except Detroit) was destroyed.
Which countries gained which areas after the Treaty of Paris in 1763?
Britain gained Canada, French Carribean Islands, land east of Mississippi and Florida, whilst Spain gained Louisiana after losing Florida in exchange for retaining Cuba.
What was the Land Ordinance?
1785 - outlined surveying system for north-west land, minimising disuptes. 1787 North-West Ordinance stated that territories were self-governing until 5000 adult men lived there, then became local government. Places with 60,000 could apply to Congress.
What was the Annapolis Meeting?
1786 - 12 men from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and Virginia met to discuss commercial problems. Proposed Articles of Confederation be redrafted in 1787.
What was Shay’s Rebellion?
1787 - Farmers rebel against tax in Massachusetts. Led by Benjamin Lincoln and involved 1000 militiamen. Lasted from January to February.
Who were the creditors?
Opposed production of paper money, believing it would cause economic instability.
Who were debtors?
Paper money ceased to circulate by 1783 - debtors demanded an increase in money. By late 1780s, they had political control and by 1787, 7 states were issuing money.
What were the Certificates of Public Credit?
Printed statements recognising that the holders were owed money by the government. The Founding Fathers heavily invested in them, so some historians believe they were economic motivation, but realistically there was little benefit
What was the Philadelphia Convention?
1787 - the Founding Fathers create the Constitution outlined by James Madison. The Great Compromise of the Virginia and New Jersey Plan’s is made. In September, 39/42 delegates approved the Constitution.
What was the Constitution?
Proposed division of authority between executive, legislative and judiciary - each intended to be independent. Within that, there were federal and state governments. Created system of checks and balances.
What was Jay’s Treaty?
Nov 1794 - caused revolt, but was largely successful as Britain surrendered forts and trade increased. Officialy signed by Washington in 1795.
What was the Whiskey Insurrection?
1791 tax on liquor led to mobs. August 1794 - 6000 men protest outside Pittsburgh, showing support for French Rveolution was stopped by Washington’s 13,000 men (suggested by Hamilton).
What was the XYZ affair?
France saw USA as Britain’s ally after Jay’s Treaty. Took 300 merchantmen and ships by June 1797 after demanded $250,000 and later $12m. John Adams refused offer by ‘X,Y and Z.’
Who were the Federalists?
Wanted increased central power and less state power. They advantages such as:
offered specific set of solutions to nation
strong support in towns (local support)
organised support through Washington and Franklin
95/100 newspapers supported federalist cause
Who were the Anti-Federalists?
Claimed the Constitution was too drastic and feared national government would destroy state sovereignty. Argued Congress less representative than state legislature. Many wanted a Bill of Rights. Most were not anti-federalists, and those that were were usually local farmers.
What was the Treaty of Aix-la-Chappelle?
1748 - ended the War of Austrian Succession (1740-8). Louisbourg was returned to France.
What were the Navigation Acts?
1651 and 1660 - caused colonial resentment as trade was restricted and mercantilism increased for the worse
What was the 7 Years War?
1756-63: dispute over land claims beginning with France and Britain, with Prussia, Spain and Austria joining later on. Resulted in a global war in Europe, Asia and Africa.
What was indentured servitude?
Essentially slavery, but gains freedom at the end of their contracted time. Many of the original colonists came as a indentured servants.
What was the colonial melting pot?
The idea that there was a mixture of lots of different cultures due to the various groups that had moved to America rather than separate cultures (‘salad bowl’ theory).
What were corporate colonies?
Having a royal charter granted to the inhabitants as a corporate body.
What were proprietary colonies?
A colony granted to some individual or individuals with the fullest prerogatives of government
What was mercantilism?
A type of trade that focuses on self-sufficiency and nationalism rather than trade and globalisation.
What was the Albany Congress?
1754 - aimed to develop a treaty with Native Americans and plan the defense of the colonies against France.
Why was Jamestown important?
1607 - the first permanent English settlement in North America (Virginia)
Why was the Mayflower important?
1620 - established the first New England settlement and the Mayflower Compact was the first document to establish self-governing
Why was Fort Duquesne important?
Important base in keeping Ohio territory and serving as French base during 7 Years War. Was attacked in 1755 by Braddock and 2000 British men, who were slaughtered Native Americans fighting for the French.
What was the Proclamation Line?
1763 - line along the Appalachians to stop colonists spreading into Native American land after Pontiac’s Rebellion (didn’t work)
What was the Sugar Act?
1764 - tax on molasses and sugar (and later wine, silk and coffee). First obvious start of taxation without representation by the British
What was the Currency Act?
1764 - ban on colonial paper money. During economic depression and led to insufficient money being available to buy goods or invest (deflation)
What were the Townshend Duties?
1767 - tax on glass, wine, china, lead, paint, paper and tea. Expected to raise £40,000 a year (relatively light taxing) but due to the Stamp Act crisis there was much unrest when the Townshend Duties were created.
What was the Stamp Act?
1765 - tax on many items from playing cards to marriage licenses, which was expected to earn £60,000 in its first year. However, it was repealed by Grenville very quickly due to colonial oppisition (i.e Sam Adams and the Sons of Liberty)
What was the Boston Massacre?
1770 - 2 week long conflict between colonists and soldiers which led to the soldiers opening fire and killing 5 Bostonians. The 8 soldiers were all released (2 branded) after being defended by John Adams.
What was the Boston Tea Party?
1773 - after the Tea Act, 342 chests of tea were thrown overboard in the harbour as protest against it, which resulted in the Boston Port Act being added to the Coercive Acts.
What was the Continental Congress?
1774 - First Continental Congress met and agreed on the Suffolk Resolves, non-importation policy and a Declaration of Rights and Grievances.
1776 - Second Continental Congress wrote Declaration of Independence, created the Olive Branch Petition and coordinated continued opposition to the Coercive Acts.
What was Pontiac’s Rebellion?
1763 - Pontiac and other Native American tribes destroyed all outposts west of Quebec due to the colonisation of their land being unfair. Led to Grenville creating the Proclamation Line.
What was the Declatory Act?
1766 - Parliament have control of colonies and right to pass legislation despite the repeal of the Stamp Act
What was the Tea Act?
1773 - tax on tea
What was the Second Continental Congress?
1775 - appointed Washington as commander chief of army
1776 - approved Declaration of Independence
1781 - wrote Articles of Confederation
What was Common Sense?
1776 pamphlet by Thomas Paine which inspired a need for independence before the war
What was the Declaration of Independence?
1776 - gained own sovereignty as the United States of America and identified rights of colonists. Mainly written by Thomas Jefferson, but others included.
Who were the Patriots?
Colonists who opposed British control
Who were the Loyalists?
Colonists who remained loyal to the British crown
What was the League of Armed Neutrality?
Founded in 1780 to resist the blockade of British rebels and protect neutral merchant ships/other vessels. Originally consisted of Sweden, Denmark, Russia, the Netherlands, the Holy Roman Empire, Prussia and Portugal
What was the Treaty of Paris?
1763 - ended French Indian War/7 Years War
1783 - ended revolutionary war
What was the Battle of Lexington and Concord?
1775 - first battle of war
What was the Battle of Bunker Hill?
1775 - American defeat but confirmed reconciliation was not possible as very bloody battle
What were the Coercive/Intolerable Acts?
1774 - Boston Port Act, Massachusetts Government Act, Administration of Justice Act, Quartering Act and (though not related to the Boston Tea Party) the Quebec Act
What was the Battle of Saratoga?
1777 - turning point as American morale was boosted and helped secure foreign aid against the British through the French navy and troops
What was the Battle of Yorktown?
1781 - Cornwallis’ surrender which effectively ended the war
What were the Battles of Trenton and Princeton?
1776/77 - Washington crossed Delaware on Christmas and later after New Years, making 2 successful attacks on the British and boosting morale
What was the southern campaign?
Began in Georgia in late 1778 in an effort to recruit more British troops. Gradually became a wasteland of violence with Charleston eventually being taken by the British on the 3rd attempt in 1780.
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