American Revolution Lecture Notes Review

Flashcards about the causes, events, and strategies of the American Revolutionary War.

What factors led to fighting between Britain and the Colonies?

Fighting broke out due to increased tensions between Britain and the Colonies, leading to a push for independence.

What happened at Lexington and Concord in April 1775?

April 1775, British General Gage planned a secret expedition to Concord to seize stockpiled military supplies. Paul Revere warned the colonists.

What was the significance of the events at Lexington and Concord?

The events at Lexington and Concord transformed political disputes into a military struggle.

What was the purpose and actions of the 2nd Continental Congress?

It met in Philadelphia in May 1775 to prepare for war, took responsibility for the army around Boston, appointed George Washington as commander, and attempted reconciliation.

Why did the reconciliation effort, including the Olive Branch Petition, fail?

The Olive Branch Petition, an attempt at reconciliation with King George, failed because the King refused to hear an appeal from an illegal body waging war.

How did King George respond to the Olive Branch Petition?

King George declared America in rebellion and ordered a blockade, making trade illegal.

What was the significance of the Battle of Bunker Hill in June 1775?

June 1775, the Americans aimed to occupy Bunker Hill, leading to a British victory but increased American morale.

What actions did George Washington take upon assuming command of the Continental Army?

Washington took command in July 1775, trained the militia into a professional army, and imposed discipline.

What was the goal and outcome of the American Invasion of Canada?

Congress wanted to invade Canada in 1775, hoping French support would weaken Britain. The invasion failed due to lack of supplies, smallpox, and desertion.

What was the impact of Dunmore's proclamation in the South?

Dunmore's proclamation promised freedom to slaves who supported the British, which angered white southerners and increased rebel support.

How did Washington force the British to evacuate Boston?

In early 1776, the rebels captured Dorchester Heights, leading to Howe's army and loyalists evacuating Boston and sailing to Halifax.

What factors led to the Declaration of Independence?

By early 1776, reconciliation seemed impossible, fighting had weakened ties, royal governments broke down, and 'Common Sense' influenced public opinion.

What were the key arguments in Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense'?

It argued against monarchy and advocated for colonial independence, putting the issue on Congress's agenda.

What problems did the Continental Congress face when considering the Declaration of Independence?

Unanimity was needed, Congress lacked authority, and foreign assistance was crucial.

To what extent was the UK to blame for the USA's Independence?

After 1763, the UK tried to extract money from the colonies and force power through acts, but also backed down, undermining its authority.

What were Britain's weaknesses in the American Revolution?

Troops needed 2-3 months to cross the Atlantic, the war was fought in a large, unfriendly territory, and terrain made it difficult to move far from navigable rivers.

What were American strengths in the Revolutionary War?

The continental army was small, militias turned out in large numbers, and privateers damaged British merchant ships.

What was the British strategy during the war?

Troops faced a generally hostile population, relying on the UK for supplies, which limited field operations.