Ga's Role in the American Revolution

Loyalist

A person who remained loyal to Great Britain and supported the British government during the American Revolution.

Battle of Kettle Creek

The first major victory for Patriots in the back country of Georgia during the American Revolutionary War that took place on February 14, 1779.

Siege of Savannah

A 1779 battle in which American and French forces tried unsuccessfully to capture Savannah from the British.

Austin Dabney

An enslaved African American who fought for the Patriots during the American Revolution, including at the Battle of Kettle Creek.

Casimir Pulaski

A Polish soldier who fought for the Patriots and helped train American troops during the Revolutionary War. He is known as the “Father of the American Calvery.”

Articles of Confederation

The first Constitution of the United States, which created a weak national government during and after the American Revolution.

Weakness of the Articles of Confederation

The national government could not collect taxes, regulate trade, enforce laws, or easily make changes to the government.

Why was the national government intentionally weak?

American leaders feared creating a strong central government that could become tyrannical like the British monarchy under King George lll.

Why did the Articles lead to the Constitution?

The central government was too weak to enforce laws, collect taxes, or regulate trade, so a stronger government was needed.

French and Indian War

A conflict between Britain and France in North America from 1754 to 1763, ultimately leading to British dominance in the reigin. It significantly increased Britain’s dept, prompting high taxation of American colonies.

Proclamation of 1763

An order issued by the British crown that prohibited colonial settlement West of the Appalachian Mountains, intended to stabilize relations with Native Americans.

Stamp Act

A law passed by the British PArliament that required all legal documents,newspapers, and other paper materials in the American colonies to carry a tax stamp. This act faced widespread resistance and contributed to growing tensions leading to the American Revolution.

Declaration of Independence

A document adopted on July 4, 1776, formally announcing the 13 American colonies separation from Great Britain.

Why was Georgia slower to resist Great Britain?

Georgia was slower because they had strong economic ties and depended on Britain and relied on their protection from conflicts with Native American groups and Spanish forces in Florida.