American Revolution, Social Contract, and Early U.S. Government Overview

What is the Social Contract Theory?

The Social Contract Theory is the agreement between the people and the government, outlining the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

What time period did the American Revolutionary War take place?

The American Revolutionary War occurred from 1775 to 1783.

Which two sides fought in the American Revolutionary War?

The American Colonies and Great Britain.

What actions did Great Britain take that violated the social contract with the 13 Colonies?

Great Britain imposed unfair taxes and restricted the rights and freedoms of the Colonies.

Who won the American Revolutionary War and why?

The American Colonies won due to their knowledge of the land, determination, and assistance from black people like Peter Salem and Crispus Attuckus

Who primarily wrote the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States.

What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?

It explained the reasons why the 13 Colonies were breaking away from British rule.

When was the Declaration of Independence published?

July 4, 1776.

What was the first American government established after the Revolutionary War?

The Articles of Confederation, adopted in 1781.

Why did the Articles of Confederation fail by 1787?

It lacked an executive branch, a judicial branch, had financial issues, and required unanimous consent for changes.

What was the structure of government under the Articles of Confederation?

It had only one branch, the Legislative Branch (Congress), with no executive or judicial branches.

What was a significant issue with currency under the Articles of Confederation?

Each state had its own currency, creating confusion and economic instability.

What was required for the Articles of Confederation to be amended?

All 13 states had to agree to any changes.

What led to the decision for a stronger government in 1787?

The inability of the states to cooperate and respect the national government.

What are the 13 original states?

Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Virginia, New York, North Carolina, and Rhode Island.

What are the four types of government?

Monarchy (king or queen), Oligarchy (small group holds power), Dictatorship (one ruler), and Democracy (the people hold power).

What are the seven continents?

Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia.

List the first four presidents of the United States.

George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.