Events to Independence & Declaration of Independence

Day 4 + 5

First Continental Congress (1774)

The first convention of delegates from the colonies that gathered to discuss the colonists' reaction to the British laws and taxes against the colonists. Did not seek independence.

Loyalists

Colonists who were loyal to Great Britain; also known as Tories.

Patriots

A colonist who wanted to become independent from Great Britain.

Declaration of Independence (1776)

The document that discusses natural rights, explains the wrongs committed by King George, and makes the official declaration of independence from England.

Second Continental Congress

A convention of delegates from the colonies that managed the colonial war effort and eventually wrote the Declaration of Independence.

Preamble

Introduction to the Declaration of Independence, outlining its purpose and principles.

Natural Rights

Principle that all individuals have basic rights, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which government must respect and protect.

Grievances

Complaints listed in the Declaration of Independence against King George III, detailing injustices and violations of the colonists' rights.

Writs of Assistance

Allowed British officers to search colonists' homes and businesses without cause or permission

Declaratory Act

A law passed by the British Parliament in 1766 asserting that it had the right to legislate for the colonies "in all cases whatsoever," reinforcing its authority over the American colonies

Stamp Act

A 1765 British law requiring colonists to pay taxes on printed materials such as newspapers, legal documents, and playing cards. It ignited widespread protest and contributed to growing resentment against British rule.

French and Indian War

A conflict between Britain and France in North America from 1754 to 1763, resulting in British territorial gains and increased colonial dissatisfaction due to war debts and taxation.

boycott

Refusal to purchase goods or services as a form of protest against policies or practices, often used by colonists in response to British taxation.

Intolerable Acts

Laws means to punish colonists after the Boston Tea Party, aimed at restricting colonial independence and escalating tensions between Britain and the colonies.

Quartering Acts

Laws that required colonists to provide housing and support for British troops stationed in America, further fueling resentment towards British rule.