Potential SAQs for Test #2

To what extent were the British colonists justified in acting against the King and Great Britain?

• Colonists were justified in resisting the King and Great Britain.

• The Stamp Act unfairly taxed paper goods like newspapers and books.

• Britain continued imposing taxes, angering colonists further.

• The Boston Massacre deepened resentment after innocent colonists were killed.

• None of the British soldiers were found guilty afterward.

• The Tea Act was also viewed as unfair and met with resistance.

• “No taxation without representation” justified colonial rebellion.

What were the main causes and impacts of the American Revolution?

• Taxation without representation: The Stamp Act frustrated colonists.

• The Boston Massacre Intensified colonial opposition to British rule.

• Boston Tea Party angered the British and caused stricter laws.

• The end of salutary neglect and imposition of Coercive Acts also frustrated the colonists.

• The United States formed, a nation of sovereignty and self-governance.

• States adopted their own constitutions, and eventually a national Constitution was adopted.

• The British weakened in power and the war demonstrated resistance to European powers.

Evaluate the main plan of the British military for the year 1777. Good? Flawed? Explain.

• Plan: General John Burgoyne would march from Canada to capture Albany, NY, cutting off New England.

• Looked good on paper but failed in execution.

• Henry Clinton ignored the plan and went to Pennsylvania instead.

• Burgoyne was ambushed by American forces before reaching Albany.

• Led to the Battle of Saratoga, ending in British surrender.

• If Clinton had followed orders, the plan might have succeeded.

• Therefore, the overall plan was flawed.

How did foreign governments help the USA win independence? Which country helped the most?

• Foreign nations provided crucial help to the U.S. during the war.

• France funded and sent soldiers to aid the Continental Army.

• Marquis de Lafayette joined Washington and strengthened ties.

• Spain attacked the British navy and captured West Florida.

• The Netherlands recognized U.S. independence and supplied goods.

• France helped the most, motivated by revenge from the Seven Years’ War.

• French involvement was key to the American victory.

Compare and contrast the political philosophies of the Democratic-Republicans and the Federalists in the early 1800s, and discuss how their ideas clashed during this period. 

• The Democratic-Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson, favored states' rights and a strict interpretation of the Constitution.

• The Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, advocated for a strong central government and a loose interpretation of the Constitution.

• The Federalists wanted a national bank and wrote the Federalist Papers to support ratification of the Constitution.

• The Democratic-Republicans were anti-federalist and believed the government could not have too much power. 

• Their clash caused debates over economic policy and the role of government, shaping the early political landscape of the United States.

To what extent is George Washington the Father of the United States?

• First U.S. President, elected in 1788.

• Set precedents for future presidents.

• Personally visited every state after inauguration to show unity.

• Protected the Constitution and its principles.

• Gave important advice in his Farewell Address:

  • Avoid political parties.

  • Avoid permanent foreign alliances.

  • Respect the Constitution.

• His leadership and example earned him the title “Father of the Nation.”

Why do you think that so many Native American tribes sided with the British against the US in the War of 1812?

• The U.S. marginalized and assimilated Native populations.

• Fought tribes during the Northwest Indian War and took land (e.g., Battle of Fallen Timbers).

• Natives saw the U.S. as a threat to their homeland.

• The British offered them a chance to fight back.

• Many sided with Britain because “the enemy of my enemy is my friend.”

• Britain also armed Native tribes, increasing their power.

• Joining the British was a strategic move for survival and revenge.

What were the key motivations behind the War of 1812, and how did it impact the nation's identity and foreign policy in the long term? 

• The British interfered with American trade during the Napoleonic Wars.

• The British Royal Navy forcibly impressed American sailors, a direct violation of American sovereignty.

• The British armed and supported Native Americans.

• The War Hawks wanted war with Britain and wanted to expand the country.

• The war impacted the nation’s identity by boosting national pride and confidence.

• The war also weakened Native American resistance and the British recognized the independence of the US. The US-Canada border was solidified.

To what extent was Andrew Jackson’s claim of a corrupt bargain legitimate? Was it worthwhile, or did he just lose at politics? Elaborate? Do similar bargains happen today?

• Jackson’s claim was partially legitimate.

• Henry Clay’s support of John Quincy Adams affected the election outcome.

• However, Jackson exaggerated his accusations.

• The Electoral College still followed the normal process.

• The claim helped Jackson gain popular support as the “common man.”

• Similar “bargains” and accusations still occur in modern politics.

• Political claims can either build support or damage legitimacy.

Why would Anglo Southerners be so concerned about potential slave revolts? How would a large-scale slave revolt shatter their beliefs and way of life?

• Anglo-Southerners feared revolts threatening their way of life.

• The cotton gin made slavery more profitable, deepening dependence.

• Southern society was built on white supremacy and slave labor.

• Slave revolts endangered both the economy and slaveholders’ lives.

• Example: the Nat Turner Rebellion terrified Southerners.

• Led to stricter slave laws and increased fear.

• A large-scale revolt would destroy the South’s racial hierarchy and economy.