Chapter 8 “ Common sense+ the Declaration of Independence“ “Turning Point+ results of the war for independence”

Second Continental Congress

Formed in May 1775 when all 13 colonies were represented to address grievances and continue fighting for colonial rights.

Olive Branch Petition

A last chance to appeal to the king, adopted by the Second Continental Congress in July 1775.

Hessians

German mercenaries hired by the British to fight the colonies, more interested in 'booty than duty'.

Common Sense

Written by Thomas Paine on January 10th, 1776, it questioned American loyalty to Britain and advocated for independence.

Democratic Republic

The type of political society Paine called America to create, emphasizing power from the people rather than the king.

Civic Virtue

The idea that individuals should sacrifice personal self-interest for the common good.

Declaration of Independence

Main author was Thomas Jefferson; adopted on July 4th, 1776, also known as the 'explanation of independence'.

Patriots

Americans who supported the revolution.

Loyalists

Americans who remained loyal to Britain, making up 20% of the American population.

Fate of Loyalists

During the Revolutionary War, loyalists were imprisoned, hanged, driven out, or had their property confiscated.

British Attack on New York

After Boston was evacuated, the British attacked New York, which was relatively easy due to many loyalists there.

Battle of Saratoga

Fought in 1777 in New York, it was significant as the turning point of the Revolutionary War leading to French support.

Franco-American Alliance

Some Americans were reluctant to align with France in 1778 due to isolationist sentiments and concerns about a Catholic country.

French Support

France provided money, supplies, and half of the fighting soldiers to the Americans.

Other European Allies

Spain and Holland (The Dutch) joined the Americans/French side in 1778 and 1779.

Benefits of Alliances

By 1779, the alliances became beneficial as Britain focused more on Europe than America.

Cornwallis Surrender

Cornwallis surrendered his entire army at Yorktown in 1781 because they were cornered by Washington and the French. Final Battle of the Revolutionary War.

American Peace Negotiators

Ben Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay negotiated the final treaty in Paris without consulting France.

Treaty of Paris 1783

The final treaty that ended the Revolutionary War, with America gaining the most from it.

Final Land Area

The area given to America after the treaty in 1783 included land east of the Mississippi River and north to the Great Lakes.

British Generosity

The British were liberal in the final treaty to open trade channels and prevent future wars.