Module 5 The American Revolution

What was the American Revolution?

A war where the 13 American colonies fought for independence from Britain; inspired later revolutions like the French Revolution and others across the Americas.

What form of government did the U.S. create after independence?

A republic, not a monarchy.

Who influenced Thomas Jefferson and other thinkers with the idea of “natural rights”?

John Locke, who said all people have rights to life, liberty, and property.

What key document declared American independence?

The Declaration of Independence (1776), written by Thomas Jefferson.

What famous phrases came from the Declaration of Independence?

“All men are created equal” and “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

What were some major results of the American Revolution?

• Independence and new U.S. identity

• More citizen participation

• Women’s expanded role (inspired Seneca Falls Convention, 1848)

• Beginning of slavery debates

• Ongoing British cultural influence

Who said “Give me liberty or give me death”?

Patrick Henry (March 23, 1775, Virginia Convention).

Who led the Continental Army?

George Washington, appointed June 15, 1775.

Who helped the Americans gain French support?

Benjamin Franklin, as a diplomat in France.

Who were the famous riders warning that the British were coming?

Paul Revere and William Dawes (April 18, 1775).

Which British politician supported the American cause?

Edmund Burke, who opposed the war, calling it unjust.

What happened at the Battles of Lexington and Concord (April 19, 1775)?

First battles of the Revolution; the “shot heard ’round the world” began the war; Americans proved they could stand up to the British.

What was the result of Lexington and Concord?

About 40 Americans and 73 British killed; Americans gained confidence, and British realized the war would be hard.

What happened at the Battle of Bunker Hill (June 17, 1775)?

British victory near Boston, but with heavy losses—about 1,000 British and 450 American casualties; showed colonists could fight effectively.

Why was George Washington chosen as commander of the Continental Army?

For his French and Indian War experience and his leadership from Virginia, the largest colony.

What advantages did the British have?

• Experienced, disciplined army

• Strongest navy

• Industrial and financial power (Bank of England)

• Loyalist and Native American support

What disadvantages did the British face?

• Distance from colonies (supply & communication issues)

• Expensive war

• Few allies

• Political division in Parliament.

What advantages did the Americans have?

• Home-field advantage

• Fighting for independence

• Just needed to avoid total defeat

• Diplomatic skill (Franklin)

• Allies: France, Spain, Netherlands

What disadvantages did the Americans have?

• Inexperienced, poorly equipped army

• Very small navy

• Weak finances

How did the American Revolution influence the world?

It inspired revolutions in France, Haiti, and Latin America and spread democratic ideals.

What continuity remained after independence?

English language, customs, and trade with Britain continued.

What did the Revolution begin to challenge?

The morality and legality of slavery and the limited rights of women.

What phrase describes the American Revolution’s global influence?

The Revolution was “the shot heard ’round the world.”

What mission did General Benedict Arnold lead into Canada?

He led an American attack on Canada, which ended in military failure and a smallpox outbreak.

What was the Olive Branch Petition?

A final plea from the Continental Congress to King George III, expressing loyalty and asking for reconciliation with the colonies.

How did King George III respond to the Olive Branch Petition?

He rejected it, declaring the colonies in “open and avowed rebellion”, ensuring there would be no turning back.

Who was Daniel Boone?

A pioneer and explorer who led settlers into Kentucky beyond the Appalachian Mountains, facing Cherokee resistanceand captivity.

What did Lord Dunmore’s proclamation promise?

Offered freedom to enslaved people in Virginia who joined the British forces, creating a regiment of Black soldiers.

What was unique about the South during the Revolution?

In areas like South Carolina, there was a near-even split between Loyalists and Patriots, creating civil war–style conflicts.

Who wrote Common Sense?

Thomas Paine, who argued for complete independence from Britain and promoted the idea of a republic.

What key arguments did Common Sense make?

• Monarchy is corrupt and unnecessary

• America’s struggle is universal and historic

• Government should ensure security for its people

• Fighting for independence is a cause of global significance.

Who was Abigail Adams?

Wife of John Adams, who advocated for women’s rights in letters urging him to “remember the ladies” while creating new laws.

What did Virginia’s Convention propose to Congress?

Instructed delegates to support independence and sever all allegiance to the British Crown.

Who introduced the Lee Resolution?

Richard Henry Lee, declaring that the colonies “are free and independent States” and all political connection with Britain should end.

Who were the members of the committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence?

Thomas Jefferson (primary author), John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Robert R. Livingston, and Roger Sherman.

What were the key principles in the Declaration of Independence?

• All men are created equal

• Rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness

• Governments exist by consent of the governed

• Colonies are free and independent states

• King George III had violated these right.

Why was the anti-slavery passage removed from the Declaration?

Southern states insisted on it to maintain support for independence.

What happened during the British attack on Long Island?

Washington’s army was forced to retreat; a nighttime evacuation across the East River saved the Continental Army from capture.

How did Washington respond to losing battles after Long Island?

He retreated across New Jersey while preserving his army, keeping the fight for independence alive.

What overall shift occurred by mid-Revolution?

The conflict changed from rebellion to a full war for independence, fueled by failed peace attempts, influential writings, and bold leadership.

Where was Washington stationed during the low point of the Revolution?

In eastern Pennsylvania, across the Delaware River from Trenton, New Jersey, facing criticism and expiring enlistments.

Who were the Hessians?

German mercenaries from Hesse-Cassel hired by the British to fight in the American Revolution.

Why did Congress flee to Baltimore?

They feared an imminent British attack on Philadelphia and wanted to stay safe.

What was The American Crisis?

A pamphlet by Thomas Paine that boosted American morale with the famous line:
"These are the times that try men’s souls."

What strategy did Washington use to attack Trenton?

A surprise crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night during a storm, ice, and strong currents.

How did Washington’s crossing of the Delaware affect the Battle of Trenton?

His troops marched south 10 miles, caught the Hessian troops by surprise, and won a decisive victory.

What were the casualties at the Battle of Trenton?

Hessians: about 20 killed, 80 wounded, nearly 900 captured; Americans: 2 deaths from cold, 5 wounded (including James Monroe who would become future president).

Who was James Monroe in this campaign?

A future President of the United States, wounded nearly fatally during the Battle of Trenton.

What happened after the victory at Trenton?

Washington re-crossed the Delaware to New Jersey to continue the fight and attack undefended Princeton, winning another victory.

Why were the victories at Trenton and Princeton significant?

• Restored morale for the Continental Army

• Showed Washington’s bold leadership and strategic skill

• Forced the British to stretch their resources trying to control New Jersey

• Disrupted British plans and secured American initiative

What role did morale-boosting and propaganda play in these campaigns?

Small raids, reinforcements, and Thomas Paine’s pamphlet inspired troops to fight despite harsh conditions.

How did weather and natural conditions impact the Delaware crossing?

Storms, ice, sleet, and strong currents made the crossing extremely difficult, delaying part of the attack and preventing other groups from landing.

What was Washington’s overall strategy in New Jersey after Trenton?

Use surprise attacks, keep mobility, force the British to spread their forces, and protect the Continental Army while weakening British control.

What flag resolution did Congress pass during the Revolution?

he official American flag was established with 13 red and white stripes and 13 stars in a blue field, representing a new constellation. This is now celebrated as Flag Day.

Who was British General John Burgoyne and what was his plan?

Nicknamed “Gentleman Johnny,” Burgoyne aimed to isolate New England by moving south from Canada to meet other British forces at Albany.

What American tactics slowed Burgoyne’s advance?

Cutting down trees to block roads and using terrain to hinder British movement.

Who led American forces at the Battle of Saratoga?

General Horatio Gates commanded, but Benedict Arnold took the initiative and inflicted heavy casualties on the British.

What happened to Benedict Arnold after Saratoga?

He was resented by Gates, later betrayed the United States by attempting to turn over West Point to the British, and became a British general.

What was the significance of the Battle of Saratoga?

• Demonstrated Americans could defeat British in European-style battle

• Led to French, Spanish, and Dutch support for the U.S.

• Boosted American morale and credibility

Who trained American troops at Valley Forge?

European officers Marquis de Lafayette and Baron von Steuben trained soldiers in European military discipline.

Who was Mary Ludwig Hays?

Known as “Molly Pitcher,” she took over her husband’s cannon at the Battle of Monmouth and represented women who assisted troops in cooking, water, and supplies.

Who led the United States Navy to capture the British ship Serapis?

John Paul Jones aboard the Bonhomme Richard.

What major southern battles involved American forces?

• Charleston – British victory

• Camden – American defeat

• King’s Mountain – American victory

• Cowpens – American victory

• Guilford Courthouse – British tactical win but heavy losses

Who was British commander in the South?

Lord Cornwallis, who moved into Virginia and eventually surrendered at Yorktown.

What strategic debate did Washington and Rochambeau face?

Whether to attack New York City or move south to face Cornwallis at Yorktown. They chose Yorktown.

How did the French navy help in the Yorktown campaign?

French admirals de Grasse and de Barras defeated the British navy at the Battle of the Capes/Chesapeake, preventing British evacuation of Cornwallis.

How did the Great Hurricane of 1780 impact the war?

It destroyed British warships and weakened the British navy, giving the French temporary naval superiority, aiding the American cause.

What was the outcome of the Siege of Yorktown?

Cornwallis surrendered, marking the effective end of major fighting in the American Revolution.

What was the overall significance of foreign aid in the Revolution?

Support from France, Spain, and the Netherlands provided troops, supplies, and naval power, crucial for American victory.

Who did Cornwallis send to surrender at Yorktown and what happened?

His second in command tried to snub the Americans by offering his sword to Rochambeau, who pointed to Washington, and Washington directed the sword be accepted by the British officer.

What happened to formerly enslaved persons after the American victory?

Thousands were returned to their owners on Washington’s orders, though some who served the British were evacuated to Britain, Nova Scotia, Jamaica, and Sierra Leone, recorded in the Book of Negroes.

What did the Treaty of Paris achieve?

• Recognized American independence

• Granted territory south of Canada and east of the Mississippi

• Gave the U.S. navigation rights on the Mississippi River

• Returned Florida to Spain

• Led to British evacuation of New York City

• Many Loyalists relocated to Canada

What was the Newburgh Conspiracy?

An attempt by some American officers to pressure Congress for back pay, possibly influenced by General Horatio Gates.

How did Washington handle the Newburgh Conspiracy?

He appeared unexpectedly, gave a powerful speech appealing to loyalty, and ended the plot. Many officers wept, and the conspiracy collapsed.

When and how did Washington formally end his military command?

He gave a farewell address to his officers in New York City and resigned his command in Maryland, returning home to Mount Vernon.

What was the long-term significance of Washington resigning command?

It demonstrated civilian control over the military and set a precedent for the new nation.

What warning did a British officer give after the war?

That although Americans had united against Britain, Northern and Southern powers might one day fight each other, foreshadowing future internal conflicts.