Chapter #5: Colonial Society on the Eve of Revolution – Big Picture Themes 1. The Americans were very diverse for that time period. New England was largely from English background, New York was Dutch, Pennsylvania was German, the Appalachian frontier was Scots-Irish, the southern coast African-American and English, and there were spots of French, Swiss, and Scots-Highlanders.
2. Although they came from different origins, the ethnicities were knowingly or what mingling and melting together into something called “Americans.”
3. Most people were farmers, an estimated 90%. The northern colonies held what little industry America had at the time: shipbuilding, iron works, rum running, trade, whaling, fishing. The south dealt with crops, slaves, and naval stores.
4. There were two main Protestant denominations: the Congregational Church up north, and the Anglican Church down south. Both were “established” meaning tax money went to the church. Poised for growth were the “backwoods” faiths of the Baptists and Methodists that grew by leaps thanks to the Great Awakening.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Great Awakening
There was a time when religion was not as greatly important as it used to be. However, during the Great Awakening, religion revived around the 1730s and 1740s, first starting in Northampton, Massachusetts by Jonathan Edwards. Another leader of the Great Awakening is George Whitfield.
George Whitfield
Having worked as an alehouse attendant, George Whitefield was a preacher who also contributed in the Great Awakening. He spread the ideas of the Great Awakening even further.
Jonathan Edwards Edwards was a pastor who wrote “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, he believed in salvation by human acts. His sermons caused the Great Awakening. His writings brought him fame. New Lights New Lights were ministers who defended the Great Awakening and its new ideas and reviving of religion. They believe the new ways that Edwards and Whitefield were preaching were helpful and they preached the same way. Old Lights
The Old Lights were more conservative than the New lights and the did not believe in the emotionalism and theatrical behaviors that the New Lights and revivalists practiced.
Age of Reason/Enlightenment
The Age of Reason/Enlightenment was a time when people started to use reason rather than old ideas. They would go with what was logical.
John Peter Zenger
Zenger was a journalist who questioned New York's Governer and he was put in jail. Zenger's case is the foundation of the Freedom of Speech and Press today. He was defended by Andrew Hamilton.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
Conquest by the Cradle
Know: Thirteen Original Colonies
1. What was the significance of the tremendous growth of population in Britain's North American colonies?
As the population of the North American colonies grew, the population changed from a three to one American to English ratio. Because of the three to one ratio, the power would move from the British to more on the American side.
A Mingling of Races
Know: Pennsylvania Dutch, Scots-Irish, Paxton Boys, Regulator Movement
2. What was the significance of large numbers of immigrants from places other than England?
This gave America the melting pot name America has today. It shows that America is different and diverse and that the colonies was not only English.
The Structure of Colonial Society
Know: Social Mobility
3. Assess the degree of social mobility in the colonies.
America was considered equal and there was not much inequality. It is possible for any random settler or immigrant to rise the ranks of the social classes and of money and wealth. There were not many homeless people or wealthy men who owned all th eland.
Makers of America: The Scots-Irish
Know: The Session
4. How had the history of the Scots-Irish affected their characteristics?
The Scots-Irish were once Scottish who were made to pay rent to the landlords but this rent was too high so the Scottish moved to Ireland; however, the Scots did not find the freedom they wanted and so the Scots-Irish moved to America. The British also taxed the Presbyterian Scottish to support the Anglican Church and because of this struggle, the Scottish are not very happy with the Anglican Church or the Churches in the United States and they are very stubborn towards these religions.
Workaday America
Know: Triangular Trade, Naval Stores, Molasses Act
5. Describe some of the more important occupations in the colonies.
Lumbering is one of the most important occupations because wood was a very big ingredient in shipbuilding mostly in New England and then everywhere else later. Farmers were also more important because they either grew food for the colonies or cash crops. Seamen was also more important because they could bring things to important and export as well as fishing.
Horsepower and Sailpower
Know: Taverns
6. What was it like to travel in early America?
Traveling in early America was long and hard. Roads did not connect the big and major cities until the 1700s. Roads were made of dirt and they were dust in the summer and mud in the winter. It was also dangerous by things such as runaway horses, rickety bridges, or carriage overturns.
Dominant Denominations
Know: Established Church, Anglicans, Congregationalists, Presbyterians
7. How did the denominations in America affect relations with Great Britain?
Less and less people followed the Anglican religion and the Church of England. Because less people followed the Church of England, the colonies and England do not have the same religion anymore.
The Great Awakening
Know: Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, Old Lights, New Lights, Baptists
8. How was the religion encompassed in the Great Awakening different from traditional religion? What was important about the difference?
The religion in the Great Awakening separated and challenged what was known as the traditional religion. This created many denominations and some of these denominations exist today.
Schools and Colleges
Know: Latin and Greek
9. What kind of education could a young person expect in colonial times?
There was usually more education in the New England colonies because New England wanted its people to be able to read the Bible and make good Christians but the education was mostly for males. Most colonial schools focused on religion and on Greek and Latin. College education prepared men for ministry and this allowed the new generation of men to be the new ministers for the church.
A Provincial Culture
Know: John Trumbull, Charles Wilson Peale, Benjamin West, John Singleton Copley, Benjamin Franklin
10. Did Americans distinguish themselves in the arts during the colonial period? Explain.
The Americans did not distinguish themselves in the arts during the colonial period. Architecture mostly came from the Old World and it was altered to meet the religious ways of the New World. Literature and Art of the colonies were also undistinguished.
Pioneer Presses
Know: John Peter Zenger
11. Why was the jury verdict in the Zenger case important?
Zenger was taken to court for saying the governor was corrupt and he was defended by Andrew Hamilton. The jury verdict of not guilty was the basis for freedom of the press and freedom of speech where people could more freely speak whatever they wanted.
The Great Game of Politics
Know: Royal Colonies, Proprietary Colonies, Self-governing Colonies, Colonial Assemblies, Power of the Purse, Town Meetings, Property Qualifications
12. How democratic was colonial America?
It all depends on the region. Pennsylvania was possibly one of the most democratic because of its Quakers. The Southern Colonies were ruled by the wealthy plantation owners. The Northeast was influenced by the Puritans who believed in equality among all men but the requirements to become a citizen was a problem.
Chapter #6: Duel for North America – Big Picture Themes 1. Two dominant cultures emerged in the 1700s in North America: (a) England controlled the Atlantic seaboard from Georgia to Maine, and (b) France controlled the area of Quebec and along the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi River.
2. New England consisted of towns made up by farmers. They cleared the land and pushed the Indians out. New France was made up of fur trading outposts. They were scattered and lived with and often worked with the Indians in the forests and streams.
3. Like cats and dogs, England and France cannot live together that close. While separated, they were fine, but the two cultures began to rub against one another in the Ohio Valley. This started the French and Indian War.
4. The French and Indian War saw the English defeat France. France was totally kicked out of North America.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Samuel de Champlain
Samuel de Champlain is an explorer and soldier who founded Quebec. He was friendly and allied with the Huron Indian tribes nearby. He would fight when the Huron Indians asked him to and he fought against the Iroquois tribes.
William Pitt
Pitt was known as the Great Commoner because he received his power from the common people. He also won the Seven Years War for the British He chose to aim at the French West Indies and at Canada. He also chose young and active leaders rather than old ones.
Pontiac
Pontiac is the Ottawa chief who controlled multiple tribes who were helped by the French traders who stayed in the region. His warriors surrounded Detroit in 1763 and he invaded everything except three British posts to the left of the Appalachians and killing 2,000 soldiers and settlers in the process.
Albany Plan of Union
Albany Plan of Union is a plan suggested by Benjamin Franklin in 1754 in order to unite all the colonies. The plan would combine all the colonies under one government.
Proclamation of 1763
It was issued in 1763 by King George III after the French and Indian War. It was to help relations between the Native Americans. It also stated that the colonists were not allowed to go beyond the Appalachian Mountains.
Pontiac’s Rebellion
It is a fight between the British and the Native Americans. Pontiac gathered some Indian tribes that were unhappy with the British policies after the French and Indian war. The Native Americans would attack British property from 1763 to 1766.
Paxton Boys
Paxton Boys was a group of Scots-Irish men who wanted protection from the Indians. They believed the Quakers were way too friendly with the Indians. The Paxton boys decided to create an armed march in 1764, killing 20 defenseless Indians in the Conestoga Massacre.
Five Nations of the Iroquois
It is an alliance of the North American Indians, Mohawks, Cayugas, Oneidas, Onondagas, and Senecas, around present day New York.
Salutary Neglect
Salutary Neglect was a time when the British did not really care about the colonies. England did not enforce the laws as strictly. However, once the British started caring about the colonies, the colonies called for independence. This is related to the causing of the American Revolution.
French and Indian War
A war between the French and the British for control over the Americas fought in North America. Native Americans helped the French in the war. The war was ended in 1763 by the Treaty of Paris.
The Battle of Quebec 1759
It was one of the battles in the French and Indian Wars where James Wolfe led the British agains the French, led by Montcalm. The French surrendered and they gave Spanish all trans-Mississippi, Louisiana and New Orleans while Spain gave Florida to Britain in exchange for Cuba. This caused Great Britain to be the major power in North America and the strongest navy.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: France Finds a Foothold in Canada
Know: Huguenots, Samuel de Champlain, New France
1. How was the colony of New France different from the British North American colonies?
The British were not friendly towards the Native Americans and they were often destructive towards them. The French would build friendly relationships with the Native Americans. The French also had no elected representative assemblies or the right to trial by jury unlike the English. The French were Catholic and English were Protestant.
New France Fans Out
Know: Beaver, Coureurs de Bois, Voyageurs, Robert de La Salle
2. What factors led to the French settlement of New France?
New France had beavers that could be killed for fur in order to make beaver-pelt hats. Voyaguers also recruited Native Americans into hunting fur with them. Another factor for the settlement of New France is an empire. The explorers wanted to prevent the English from moving into Ohio Valley.
The Clash of Empires
Know: Treaty of Utrecht, War of Jenkins's Ear, James Oglethorpe, Louisbourg
3. Describe the early wars between France and Britain.
It was mostly guerrilla warfare fighting. Both sides, France and Britain, would ally with whichever Indians they could find. Both countries also did not want to send soldiers because the countries did not believe it was worth it. Spain, however, allied with France. The Treaty of Utrecht ended the fighting with Britain beating France and Spanish badly.
George Washington Inaugurates War with France
Know: Fort Duquesne, George Washington, Fort Necessity, Acadians
4. How did George Washington spark the French and Indian War?
George Washington was sent out to Ohio Country with 150 Virginia militiamen. Washington sees French troops in the forest 40 miles away from Fort Duquense and the Virginians fired shots, killing the French leader. The French soldiers retreat but return with more men and Washington quickly created Fort Necesity. Washington and his men surrendered after a 10 hour seige but the French allowed Washington and his men to walk away.
Global War and Colonial Disunity
Know: Benjamin Franklin, Albany Plan of Union, "Join or Die"
5. What was meant by the statement, “America was conquered in Germany?
It was a war between Britain with Prussia and Russia, France, and Austria. The French, Austrian, and Russian forces were all defeated by the Prussians. France was so weakened by the loss that there would not be enough strength for France to take Americas and this allowed the British to defeat the French on the Americas.
Braddock's Blundering and Its Aftermath
Know: Edward Braddock
6. What setbacks did the British suffer in the early years of the French and Indian War?
The British was led by General Braddock along with George Washington. They meet a smaller French and Indian army that was first driven back at first but quickly started turning the tables. The French and Indian army ran into the thick bushes and trees and started firing upon the British and many died. This was a loss for the British.
Pitt's Palms of Victory
Know: William Pitt, James Wolfe, Battle of Quebec
7. What was the significance of the British victory in the French and Indian War?
Great Britain was able to come out as the leading power in North America. The victory also set Great Britain as the most powerful navy in the world.
Restless Colonials
8. How did the French and Indian War affect the relationship between the colonies and with the mother country?
As the mother country and the colonies fought together, the colonies realized that the British were not nice. The British felt contempt for the colonists and the British felt that the colonists were beneath them. This caused much anger among the colonists. The Proclamation of 1763 after the war also angered the colonists by not allowing the colonists the land they won after the war.
War’s Fateful Aftermath
Know: Treaty of Paris, Pontiac, Daniel Boone, Proclamation of 1763
9. How did French defeat lead to westward expansion and tension with Native Americans and the British?
As the British kept pushing West, the Indians were forced to move even further into land they did not like. It was also to pay for the costs of the French and Indian War as England increased the taxes on the colonies.
Chapter #7: The Road to Revolution 1. Following the French and Indian War, the British crown needed money and figured the Americans could help pay for the war.
2. Also, the economic policy of mercantilism dictated that England try to keep its hard money within the British Empire. So, laws were passed to restrict American trade.
3. The taxes and regulations that followed were not received well by the Americans, notably the Stamp Act.
4. Conditions deteriorated and radical patriots brought matters to a head in events such as the Tea Party and Boston Massacre. Even though most Americans would be considered moderates at the time, the radical patriots were the ones making things happen.
5. The culmination of the patriots’ activities came at Lexington and Concord, when the American Revolution began.
IDENTIFICATIONS Lord North
Lord North was King George III's prime minister from 1770 to 1782. Lord North's rule fell in 1782 and this caused George III's rule to end as well.
George Grenville
George Grenville is a prime minister who commanded the Navy to start enforcing the Navigation Acts to repay the costs of the Seven Years War. He also passed many acts that implemented taxes such as the Stamp Act in 1765 and Sugar Act in 1764. In 1765, the Quartering Act was created by him.
IDENTIFICATIONS Lord North
The Tory prime minister and pliant aide to George III from 1770 to 1782. North's ineffective leadership and dogged insistence on colonial subordination contributed to the American Revolution.
George Grenville
British prime minister who fueled tensions between Britain and her North American colonies through his strict enforcement of navigation laws and his support for the Sugar and Stamp Acts.
Letter from a Farmer in Pennsylvania
John Dickinson, a lawyer and popular essayist foresees the possibility of future conflicts between the colonists and Great Britain but urges to not use violence as a solution.
Gaspee Incident
A British Royal Navy ship assigned to custom duty, the Gaspee, was boarded by a group of men led by John Brown. He wounded the lieutenant that was commandeering the ship and set the ship on fire.
Charles Townshend
He was in control of the British ministry and was nicknamed "Champagne Charley." He persuaded Parliament in 1767 to pass the Townshend Acts.
Baron Von Steuben
Stern, Prussian drillmaster, whipped American soldiers into shape. Turned the American militia into hardened battle-ready soldiers to fight the British.
Mercantilism
Economic theory that simply states a nation's power is determined by its wealth in gold. Also states that the colonies existed for the benefit of the mother country; they should add to its wealth, prosperity, and self-sufficiency.
"Virtual" representation
A theory that claimed that every member of Parliament represented all British subjects, even those in the colonies, who never voted for a member of the London Parliament.
Sons of Liberty
An organization established in 1765, these members (usually in middle/upper class) resisted the Stamp Act of 1765. Even though the Stamp Act was repealed in 1766, the SoL combined with the Daughters of Liberty and remained active in resistance movements.
Admiralty courts
Offenders of the Sugar Act of 1764 and the Stamp Act of 1765 were tried in courts with no juries where the defendant was presumed guilty until proven innocent. Americans felt their basic rights as Englishmen were being violated and the animosity created fuel for independence from England. Brewed discontent with the British power.
Committees of Correspondence
A letter-writing network, started by Sam Adams in Boston in 1772 to spread propaganda and secret information through letters. Used to sustain opposition to British policy. Committees were extremely effective and critical in building a revolutionary spirit amongst Americans. The Committees of Correspondence largely interfered with the British ambitions. The men in the Committee were later in the Congress.
First Continental Congress
A convention and a consultative body that met for 7 weeks, from September 5th to October 10th, 1774, in Philadelphia. All except Georgia sent 55 delegates. John Adams persuaded colleagues to start the revolution, and they wrote a Declaration of Rights and appeals to the British American colonies, the King, and the British people.
Loyalists (Tories)
A group of people that were loyal to the British crown. Initially its numbers were roughly equivalent to the number of patriots in the colonies. However, as the war progressed, more and more members of the neutral party joined the Patriots, leaving the Loyalists as the minority group in the colonies. They would eventually flee to Canada due to oppression and apprehension from the colonists.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: The Deep Roots of Revolution
1. Why does the author say that the American Revolution began when the first settlers stepped ashore?
The author says that the American revolution began when the first settlers stepped ashore because it signified a new people that became independent from exterior rule. Eventually, ideas brewed and were created. The colonists were reluctant revolutionaries, but it was only after the influence of British control over the colonies did it ignite the colonists for a stand for independence and revolution.
Mercantilism and Colonial Grievances
Know: Mercantilism, Navigation Laws, Royal Veto
2. Explain the economic theory of mercantilism and the role of colonies.
Mercantilism was a theory that wealth was power and that a country’s economic wealth and hence
its military and political power could be measured by the amount of gold or silver in its treasury.
3. How did Parliament enact the theory of mercantilism into policy?
Parliament used the Navigation Law of 1650 as well as enforcing tax policies for all forms of commerce in the colonies. Eventually, Parliament made it so that only the British could actually make a profit off of commerce in the colonies.
The Merits and Menace of Mercantilism
Know: Salutary Neglect, John Hancock, Bounties
4. In what ways did the mercantilist theory benefit the colonies?
Colonists made a profit off of ship parts sold to Britain, as well as having a monopoly of tobacco in the tobacco industry. Lastly, the colonists benefited from the protection of the world’s mightiest navy and a strong, seasoned army of redcoats.
5. What economic factors were involved in leading colonists to be displeased with the British government?
They had no say in the matter of the government in England, the parliament. They were forced to pay taxes as well as suffer from excessive acts passed by the Parliament without their approval. They eventually became so upset that they would rise and cause a revolution.
The Stamp Tax Uproar
Know: George Grenville, Sugar Act, Quartering Act, Stamp Act, Admiralty Courts, Virtual Representation
6. Why were the colonists so upset over relatively mild taxes and policies?
They interpreted the enactment of taxes as a direct attack to their liberties they had come to assume as a matter of a natural right. Furthermore, they interpreted it as a direct violation of the basic rights of the colonists as Englishmen.
Forced Repeal of the Stamp Act
Know: Stamp Act Congress, Non- importation Agreements, Homespun, Sons of Liberty, Declaratory Act
7. In what ways did colonists resist the Stamp Act?
The colonists decided to abstain and boycott British goods, rather, they looked toward natural goods that they could survive off of. Woolen garments became fashionable as they could be created off of sheep. Colonists also resorted to violence as a protest of the Stamp Act.
The Townshend Tea Tax and the Boston "Massacre"
Know: Townshend Acts, Indirect Tax, Boston Massacre, John Adams
8. How did the Townshend Acts lead to more difficulties?
It only further infuriated the colonists to rise against the British government. Once again they protested that they had no say in the matter and that there should be “no taxation without representation” even though if they really did have a representative there, they would easily be outvoted. Rather it seems that colonists simply did not want to pay taxes.
The Seditious Committees of Correspondence
Know: George III, Lord North, Samuel Adams, Committees of Correspondence
9. How did Committees of Correspondence work?
It worked to undermine the British attempts to shut down the patriots. Spies and message couriers were deeply intertwined inside British communications. The network was intricate enough so that the British struggled to communicate faster than the Committees of Correspondence.
Tea Brewing in Boston
Know: British East India Company, Boston Tea Party
10. What was the cause of the Boston Tea Party, and what was its significance?
The British decided to enforce their laws, which infuriated the colonists. In turn, the colonists refused to buy a single box of tea and that the tea is returned to England. Thomas Hutchinson stood against the colonists’ wrath, which in turn disguised themselves as Indian and dumped the tea into the harbor. It’s significance showed that the colonists are patriotic of what they believe in and that they’ll do whatever it takes to have their say in the matter.
Parliament Passes the "Intolerable Acts"
Know: Boston Port Act, Massachusetts Government Act, Administration of Justice Act, Quartering Act of 1774, Quebec Act
11. What was so intolerable about the Coercive (Intolerable) Acts?
The Intolerable Acts were outright intolerable due to the restrictions and enforcements of existing acts that were placed upon the colonists.
Bloodshed
Know: First Continental Congress, Declaration of Rights, The Association, Tar and Feathers, Minute Men, Lexington and Concord
12. What was the goal of the First Continental Congress?
The goal of the First Continental Congress was to consider ways to redress colonial grievances.
Imperial Strength and Weakness
Know: Hessians, Tories
13. What were British strengths and weaknesses at the outset of the war?
British Strengths: Strongest Navy, Strongest Army, Well-trained troops, economic power, loyalists
British weaknesses: Outside of homeland, across the Atlantic Ocean, American Patriots, Had to Capture the Entire Colonists land.
American Pluses and Minuses
Know: George Washington, Ben Franklin, Marquis de Lafayette, Continentals
14. What were the American strengths and weaknesses at the outset of the war?
American Strengths: Patriotic Spirit, Defensive War, Determination, Home Battle
American Weaknesses: Ordinary men, untrained troops, profiteers, lack of supplies and economic power.
A Thin Line of Heroes
Know: Valley Forge, Baron von Steuben, Continental Army
15. What role was played by African-Americans in the Revolution?
African-Americans served as soldiers both on the British flag and the Colonists flag. The African Americans were promised freedom if they joined the British. However, they were still treated as a lower social class than those of the Whites. Chapter #8: American Secedes from the Empire – Big Picture Themes 1. Nearly every advantage on paper went to Britain during the revolution. They had better troops, training, a much better navy, experienced generals, more money, better weapons and equipment.
2. The Americans had on their side heart and geography. America was very big and and ocean removed from England.
3. Perhaps due to necessity rather than plan, American employed a drawn-out strategy where the war drug on for six years. America won by constantly withdrawing to the nation’s interior and moving on to fight another day.
4. Meanwhile, as the war waged, the Declaration of Independence was written, signed, and approved.
5. The Treaty of Paris 1763 legitimized the new nation.
IDENTIFICATIONS: Second Continental Congress
Met in Philadelphia on May 10, 1775. Three delegates were added to the Congress were Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Hancock. The Congress took on governmental duties and united all the colonies for the war effort. They selected George Washington as commander of the army. They encouraged the colonies to set themselves up as states. On July 4, 1776 they adopted the Declaration of Independence. Ended March 7, 1781, when a Congress authorized by the Articles of Confederation took over.
Hessians
German soldiers hired by George III to smash colonial rebellion. More concerned about "booty than duty," didn't care which side won the war. They were considered “butchers” due to their fighting styles when hired.
Thomas Paine/Common Sense
Passionate and persuasive writer, published "Common Sense" in 1776, which had the radical idea that the colonies should set America as an independent, democratic republic away from England. Common Sense became popular in the colonies.
George Washington
A military leader in the French and Indian War who pulled his small force back into Fort Necessity where he was overwhelmed by the French. Commander of Virginia's frontier troops as a colonel. Later, he was Commander of the Continental Army during the Revolution. His greatest achievements: his surprise victory at Trenton, holding the army together at Valley Forge, and major victory at Yorktown. 1st president of the US, took office on Apr. 30, 1789 in NYC.
Marquis de Layfette
A wealthy French nobleman; he was made Major General of the colonial army. He got commission on part of his family but nevertheless supplied America with invaluable help.
Baron Von Steuban
Stern, Prussian drillmaster, whipped American soldiers into shape. He drilled the American untrained militia into hardened battle-ready soldier. Essential in the Revolutionary War for American victory.
John Burgoyne
British general that submitted a plan for invading NY from Canada. He was then given charge of the army. He surrendered at Saratoga on Oct. 17, 1777. This battle helped convince France into the war as an ally for the US.
Benedict Arnold
One of the greatest generals at the time for the US. However, he was jealous of Washington, who became the general of the Continental Army rather than he. He would later betray the Americans and be deemed a traitor.
Treaty of Paris, 1783
A treaty where British recognized the independence of the US. Granted boundaries, which stretched from the Mississippi River on the west to the Great Lakes on the north, and to Spanish Florida on the south. The Yankees retained a share of Newfoundland for fishing, which greatly upset the Canadians.
Battle of Trenton
On Christmas night in 1776 Washington led his troops back across Delaware. He surprised a force of Hessians that were camped at Trenton. The Americans took about 900 prisoners and a large store of supplies. Boosted American Morale even though the mercenaries were caught off guard.
Battles of Lexington and Concord
First military Engagements of the Revolutionary war, fought on April 19. 1775. There were about 700 Brit army men, and it was the first open fight between the colonies and Britain. Despite being outnumbered, the bridge limited the number of British troops that could engage. Eventually, the British would retreat due to excessive casualties.
Battle of Saratoga
Burgoyne sent an expedition to Bennington to capture American supplies but a force of New England militia met them and defeated them, his men were surrounded near Saratoga by the Continental Army, he surrendered. This battle was the turning point of the war and convinced France to aid the American cause.
Battle of Yorktown
The last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Here, General Cornwallis was surrounded on a peninsula by the French Navy and the American troops. Trapped, Cornwallis and his troops surrendered. This surrender marked the defeat of the British in the Revolutionary War.
Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation was an agreement among the 13 founding states that established the United States of America as a confederation of sovereign states and served as its first constitution. However, it eventually fell apart since it was poorly enforced, rather, it served as an outline.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: Congress Drafts George Washington
Know: Second Continental Congress, George Washington
1. Why was George Washington chosen as general of the American army?
He was a Virginian, so he came from the most powerful colony that was present in the pre-formed United States of America. He was tall, and he evoked a sense of patriotism. Furthermore, it was a strategic move so that Virginia would go and agree to take part.
Bunker Hill and Hessian Hirelings
Know: Ethan Allen, Benedict Arnold, Fort Ticonderoga, Bunker Hill, Redcoats, Olive Branch Petition, Hessians
2. George III "slammed the door on all hope of reconciliation." How and why?
George III hired Hessians to kill his own people, the colonists. The colonists appealed for peace but the King declared open war on the colonies. Thus, slamming the door on all hope of reconciliation.
The Abortive Conquest of Canada
Know: Richard Montgomery
3. Did the fighting go well for Americans before July of 1776? Explain.
Overall, the fighting did not go well for the Americans as they primarily on the run attempting to evade British pursuit.
Thomas Paine Preaches Common Sense
4. Why was Common Sense important?
A pamphlet written in America by Englishman Thomas Paine, published on January 10, 1776. It called for American independence and a union of the American colonies, and as propaganda, it influenced colonists to pursue both in the Revolutionary War.
Paine and the Idea of "Republicanism"
Know: Republic, Natural Aristocracy
5. Why did Paine want a democratic republic?
Paine wanted a democratic republic for the colonies so that the power flowed from the people themselves, rather than a possibly corrupt and despotic monarch. This way, he argued, the people can keep in check on the representatives they have chosen to represent them. There would be less odds of corruption and absolute rule.
Jefferson's "Explanation" of Independence
Know: Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence, Natural Rights
6. What does the Declaration of Independence say?
It declared the natural rights of humankind. It also protested against imposing taxes without consent, dispensing with trial by jury, abolishing valued laws, establishing a military dictatorship, maintaining standing armies in peacetime, cutting off trade, burning towns, hiring mrecenaries, and inciting hostility among the Indians.
Patriots and Loyalists
Know: Patrick Henry
7. What kinds of people were Loyalists?
The Loyalists were primarily those who were middle aged who had “things to lose.” They stayed loyal to the British crown and did not want a war with their home country. Their numbers mirrored the number of Patriots; however, over time, more and more colonists joined the Patriots and the Loyalists soon became the minority.
Makers of America: The Loyalists
8. What happened to Loyalists after the war?
They primarily fled to Canada to evade persecution and oppression.
The Loyalist Exodus
9. What happened to Loyalists during the war?
They faced oppression and persecution from the Patriots. After the Declaration of Independence, harsher methods used on the Loyalists emerged. Loyalists were roughly handled, hundreds were imprisoned, and a few noncombatants were hanged.
Burgoyne's Blundering Invasion
Know: John Burgoyne, Benedict Arnold, Saratoga, Horatio Gates
10. Why did the Americans win the battle of Saratoga? Why was it significant?
The Americans won the battle of Saratoga in part because of the training given to them by Baron von Steuben. In addition, the British troops found themselves trapped and were forced to surrender. This marked a victory for the American colonists and would convince France to come into the war to join the colonists’ cause.
Revolution in Diplomacy?
11. Why did the French help America win independence?
The British were the French’s enemies for a while. So as the phrase goes, “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” ends up having France on the Revolutionaries’ side.
The Colonial War Becomes a Wider War
Know: Armed Neutrality
12. Why was foreign aid so important to the American cause?
France provided weapons, supplies, and troops to back up the Americans. At Yorktown, it was the French Navy that surrounded General Cornwallis at the peninsula that forced him to surrender since he was cut off from British naval assistance.
Blow and Counterblow
Know: Nathaniel Greene, Charles Cornwallis
13. Would an American Patriot, reading news of the war in 1780, have been happy about the way the war was going? Explain.
No, as the darkest periods of the war was between 1780-1781. Inflation of the currency continued at full gallop. The government was virtually bankrupt and declared that it would repay many of its debts at the rate of only 2.5 cents on the dollar .despair prevailed, the sense of unity withered, and mutinous sentiments infected the army.
The Land Frontier and the Sea Frontier
Know: Iroquois Confederacy, Fort Stanwix, George Rogers Clarke, John Paul Jones, Privateers
14. Was frontier fighting important in the outcome of the war?
Frontier fighting was sparsely used by the Continental Army. Rather, the colonists favored guerilla warfare where they could fire their weapons at the British under cover with little to no retaliation. This fighting style became one of the major factors that led to the British’s downfall.
Yorktown and the Final Curtain
Know: Charles Cornwallis, Yorktown
15. If the war did not end at Yorktown, then why was it important?
It virtually turned the tides of the war between the British and the colonists. The British citizens became weary of war and the debts and troubles that it brought them. Eventually, a treaty was negotiated at Paris, which would be known today as the Treaty of Paris.
Peace at Paris
Know: Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, John Jay, Treaty of Paris
16. What did America gain and what did it concede in the Treaty of Paris?
America gained British’s recognition of the United States. In addition, they granted generous boundaries, stretching from the Mississippi on the west, to the Great Lakes on the north, and to Spanish Florida on the South. In turn, Americans had to stop persecuting the Loyalists and that loyalists’ property be returned to them. Furthermore, Britain wanted the Americans to repay their debts to British lenders.
A New Nation Legitimized
Know: Whigs
17 Did Americans get favorable terms in the Treaty of Paris? Explain.
Yes, they gained independence, large grants of land, and proved to the world that they were a united country. American pride surged, and peace was resumed in the colonies.
Whose Revolution?
18. Which of the interpretations of the Revolution seems most true to you? Least true? Explain.
I think the most true part of the Revolution is that Americans won by a combination of sheer luck and through Patriotic determination. The Americans never gave up, and they stuck it through until the very end. I do not believe however, that the Revolution was caused by the British. Objectively, the colonists overreacted to taxes that were enacted on them for the cost of protecting them in the French and Indian War.
2. Although they came from different origins, the ethnicities were knowingly or what mingling and melting together into something called “Americans.”
3. Most people were farmers, an estimated 90%. The northern colonies held what little industry America had at the time: shipbuilding, iron works, rum running, trade, whaling, fishing. The south dealt with crops, slaves, and naval stores.
4. There were two main Protestant denominations: the Congregational Church up north, and the Anglican Church down south. Both were “established” meaning tax money went to the church. Poised for growth were the “backwoods” faiths of the Baptists and Methodists that grew by leaps thanks to the Great Awakening.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Great Awakening
There was a time when religion was not as greatly important as it used to be. However, during the Great Awakening, religion revived around the 1730s and 1740s, first starting in Northampton, Massachusetts by Jonathan Edwards. Another leader of the Great Awakening is George Whitfield.
George Whitfield
Having worked as an alehouse attendant, George Whitefield was a preacher who also contributed in the Great Awakening. He spread the ideas of the Great Awakening even further.
Jonathan Edwards Edwards was a pastor who wrote “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, he believed in salvation by human acts. His sermons caused the Great Awakening. His writings brought him fame. New Lights New Lights were ministers who defended the Great Awakening and its new ideas and reviving of religion. They believe the new ways that Edwards and Whitefield were preaching were helpful and they preached the same way. Old Lights
The Old Lights were more conservative than the New lights and the did not believe in the emotionalism and theatrical behaviors that the New Lights and revivalists practiced.
Age of Reason/Enlightenment
The Age of Reason/Enlightenment was a time when people started to use reason rather than old ideas. They would go with what was logical.
John Peter Zenger
Zenger was a journalist who questioned New York's Governer and he was put in jail. Zenger's case is the foundation of the Freedom of Speech and Press today. He was defended by Andrew Hamilton.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS:
Conquest by the Cradle
Know: Thirteen Original Colonies
1. What was the significance of the tremendous growth of population in Britain's North American colonies?
As the population of the North American colonies grew, the population changed from a three to one American to English ratio. Because of the three to one ratio, the power would move from the British to more on the American side.
A Mingling of Races
Know: Pennsylvania Dutch, Scots-Irish, Paxton Boys, Regulator Movement
2. What was the significance of large numbers of immigrants from places other than England?
This gave America the melting pot name America has today. It shows that America is different and diverse and that the colonies was not only English.
The Structure of Colonial Society
Know: Social Mobility
3. Assess the degree of social mobility in the colonies.
America was considered equal and there was not much inequality. It is possible for any random settler or immigrant to rise the ranks of the social classes and of money and wealth. There were not many homeless people or wealthy men who owned all th eland.
Makers of America: The Scots-Irish
Know: The Session
4. How had the history of the Scots-Irish affected their characteristics?
The Scots-Irish were once Scottish who were made to pay rent to the landlords but this rent was too high so the Scottish moved to Ireland; however, the Scots did not find the freedom they wanted and so the Scots-Irish moved to America. The British also taxed the Presbyterian Scottish to support the Anglican Church and because of this struggle, the Scottish are not very happy with the Anglican Church or the Churches in the United States and they are very stubborn towards these religions.
Workaday America
Know: Triangular Trade, Naval Stores, Molasses Act
5. Describe some of the more important occupations in the colonies.
Lumbering is one of the most important occupations because wood was a very big ingredient in shipbuilding mostly in New England and then everywhere else later. Farmers were also more important because they either grew food for the colonies or cash crops. Seamen was also more important because they could bring things to important and export as well as fishing.
Horsepower and Sailpower
Know: Taverns
6. What was it like to travel in early America?
Traveling in early America was long and hard. Roads did not connect the big and major cities until the 1700s. Roads were made of dirt and they were dust in the summer and mud in the winter. It was also dangerous by things such as runaway horses, rickety bridges, or carriage overturns.
Dominant Denominations
Know: Established Church, Anglicans, Congregationalists, Presbyterians
7. How did the denominations in America affect relations with Great Britain?
Less and less people followed the Anglican religion and the Church of England. Because less people followed the Church of England, the colonies and England do not have the same religion anymore.
The Great Awakening
Know: Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield, Old Lights, New Lights, Baptists
8. How was the religion encompassed in the Great Awakening different from traditional religion? What was important about the difference?
The religion in the Great Awakening separated and challenged what was known as the traditional religion. This created many denominations and some of these denominations exist today.
Schools and Colleges
Know: Latin and Greek
9. What kind of education could a young person expect in colonial times?
There was usually more education in the New England colonies because New England wanted its people to be able to read the Bible and make good Christians but the education was mostly for males. Most colonial schools focused on religion and on Greek and Latin. College education prepared men for ministry and this allowed the new generation of men to be the new ministers for the church.
A Provincial Culture
Know: John Trumbull, Charles Wilson Peale, Benjamin West, John Singleton Copley, Benjamin Franklin
10. Did Americans distinguish themselves in the arts during the colonial period? Explain.
The Americans did not distinguish themselves in the arts during the colonial period. Architecture mostly came from the Old World and it was altered to meet the religious ways of the New World. Literature and Art of the colonies were also undistinguished.
Pioneer Presses
Know: John Peter Zenger
11. Why was the jury verdict in the Zenger case important?
Zenger was taken to court for saying the governor was corrupt and he was defended by Andrew Hamilton. The jury verdict of not guilty was the basis for freedom of the press and freedom of speech where people could more freely speak whatever they wanted.
The Great Game of Politics
Know: Royal Colonies, Proprietary Colonies, Self-governing Colonies, Colonial Assemblies, Power of the Purse, Town Meetings, Property Qualifications
12. How democratic was colonial America?
It all depends on the region. Pennsylvania was possibly one of the most democratic because of its Quakers. The Southern Colonies were ruled by the wealthy plantation owners. The Northeast was influenced by the Puritans who believed in equality among all men but the requirements to become a citizen was a problem.
Chapter #6: Duel for North America – Big Picture Themes 1. Two dominant cultures emerged in the 1700s in North America: (a) England controlled the Atlantic seaboard from Georgia to Maine, and (b) France controlled the area of Quebec and along the Great Lakes and down the Mississippi River.
2. New England consisted of towns made up by farmers. They cleared the land and pushed the Indians out. New France was made up of fur trading outposts. They were scattered and lived with and often worked with the Indians in the forests and streams.
3. Like cats and dogs, England and France cannot live together that close. While separated, they were fine, but the two cultures began to rub against one another in the Ohio Valley. This started the French and Indian War.
4. The French and Indian War saw the English defeat France. France was totally kicked out of North America.
IDENTIFICATIONS:
Samuel de Champlain
Samuel de Champlain is an explorer and soldier who founded Quebec. He was friendly and allied with the Huron Indian tribes nearby. He would fight when the Huron Indians asked him to and he fought against the Iroquois tribes.
William Pitt
Pitt was known as the Great Commoner because he received his power from the common people. He also won the Seven Years War for the British He chose to aim at the French West Indies and at Canada. He also chose young and active leaders rather than old ones.
Pontiac
Pontiac is the Ottawa chief who controlled multiple tribes who were helped by the French traders who stayed in the region. His warriors surrounded Detroit in 1763 and he invaded everything except three British posts to the left of the Appalachians and killing 2,000 soldiers and settlers in the process.
Albany Plan of Union
Albany Plan of Union is a plan suggested by Benjamin Franklin in 1754 in order to unite all the colonies. The plan would combine all the colonies under one government.
Proclamation of 1763
It was issued in 1763 by King George III after the French and Indian War. It was to help relations between the Native Americans. It also stated that the colonists were not allowed to go beyond the Appalachian Mountains.
Pontiac’s Rebellion
It is a fight between the British and the Native Americans. Pontiac gathered some Indian tribes that were unhappy with the British policies after the French and Indian war. The Native Americans would attack British property from 1763 to 1766.
Paxton Boys
Paxton Boys was a group of Scots-Irish men who wanted protection from the Indians. They believed the Quakers were way too friendly with the Indians. The Paxton boys decided to create an armed march in 1764, killing 20 defenseless Indians in the Conestoga Massacre.
Five Nations of the Iroquois
It is an alliance of the North American Indians, Mohawks, Cayugas, Oneidas, Onondagas, and Senecas, around present day New York.
Salutary Neglect
Salutary Neglect was a time when the British did not really care about the colonies. England did not enforce the laws as strictly. However, once the British started caring about the colonies, the colonies called for independence. This is related to the causing of the American Revolution.
French and Indian War
A war between the French and the British for control over the Americas fought in North America. Native Americans helped the French in the war. The war was ended in 1763 by the Treaty of Paris.
The Battle of Quebec 1759
It was one of the battles in the French and Indian Wars where James Wolfe led the British agains the French, led by Montcalm. The French surrendered and they gave Spanish all trans-Mississippi, Louisiana and New Orleans while Spain gave Florida to Britain in exchange for Cuba. This caused Great Britain to be the major power in North America and the strongest navy.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: France Finds a Foothold in Canada
Know: Huguenots, Samuel de Champlain, New France
1. How was the colony of New France different from the British North American colonies?
The British were not friendly towards the Native Americans and they were often destructive towards them. The French would build friendly relationships with the Native Americans. The French also had no elected representative assemblies or the right to trial by jury unlike the English. The French were Catholic and English were Protestant.
New France Fans Out
Know: Beaver, Coureurs de Bois, Voyageurs, Robert de La Salle
2. What factors led to the French settlement of New France?
New France had beavers that could be killed for fur in order to make beaver-pelt hats. Voyaguers also recruited Native Americans into hunting fur with them. Another factor for the settlement of New France is an empire. The explorers wanted to prevent the English from moving into Ohio Valley.
The Clash of Empires
Know: Treaty of Utrecht, War of Jenkins's Ear, James Oglethorpe, Louisbourg
3. Describe the early wars between France and Britain.
It was mostly guerrilla warfare fighting. Both sides, France and Britain, would ally with whichever Indians they could find. Both countries also did not want to send soldiers because the countries did not believe it was worth it. Spain, however, allied with France. The Treaty of Utrecht ended the fighting with Britain beating France and Spanish badly.
George Washington Inaugurates War with France
Know: Fort Duquesne, George Washington, Fort Necessity, Acadians
4. How did George Washington spark the French and Indian War?
George Washington was sent out to Ohio Country with 150 Virginia militiamen. Washington sees French troops in the forest 40 miles away from Fort Duquense and the Virginians fired shots, killing the French leader. The French soldiers retreat but return with more men and Washington quickly created Fort Necesity. Washington and his men surrendered after a 10 hour seige but the French allowed Washington and his men to walk away.
Global War and Colonial Disunity
Know: Benjamin Franklin, Albany Plan of Union, "Join or Die"
5. What was meant by the statement, “America was conquered in Germany?
It was a war between Britain with Prussia and Russia, France, and Austria. The French, Austrian, and Russian forces were all defeated by the Prussians. France was so weakened by the loss that there would not be enough strength for France to take Americas and this allowed the British to defeat the French on the Americas.
Braddock's Blundering and Its Aftermath
Know: Edward Braddock
6. What setbacks did the British suffer in the early years of the French and Indian War?
The British was led by General Braddock along with George Washington. They meet a smaller French and Indian army that was first driven back at first but quickly started turning the tables. The French and Indian army ran into the thick bushes and trees and started firing upon the British and many died. This was a loss for the British.
Pitt's Palms of Victory
Know: William Pitt, James Wolfe, Battle of Quebec
7. What was the significance of the British victory in the French and Indian War?
Great Britain was able to come out as the leading power in North America. The victory also set Great Britain as the most powerful navy in the world.
Restless Colonials
8. How did the French and Indian War affect the relationship between the colonies and with the mother country?
As the mother country and the colonies fought together, the colonies realized that the British were not nice. The British felt contempt for the colonists and the British felt that the colonists were beneath them. This caused much anger among the colonists. The Proclamation of 1763 after the war also angered the colonists by not allowing the colonists the land they won after the war.
War’s Fateful Aftermath
Know: Treaty of Paris, Pontiac, Daniel Boone, Proclamation of 1763
9. How did French defeat lead to westward expansion and tension with Native Americans and the British?
As the British kept pushing West, the Indians were forced to move even further into land they did not like. It was also to pay for the costs of the French and Indian War as England increased the taxes on the colonies.
Chapter #7: The Road to Revolution 1. Following the French and Indian War, the British crown needed money and figured the Americans could help pay for the war.
2. Also, the economic policy of mercantilism dictated that England try to keep its hard money within the British Empire. So, laws were passed to restrict American trade.
3. The taxes and regulations that followed were not received well by the Americans, notably the Stamp Act.
4. Conditions deteriorated and radical patriots brought matters to a head in events such as the Tea Party and Boston Massacre. Even though most Americans would be considered moderates at the time, the radical patriots were the ones making things happen.
5. The culmination of the patriots’ activities came at Lexington and Concord, when the American Revolution began.
IDENTIFICATIONS Lord North
Lord North was King George III's prime minister from 1770 to 1782. Lord North's rule fell in 1782 and this caused George III's rule to end as well.
George Grenville
George Grenville is a prime minister who commanded the Navy to start enforcing the Navigation Acts to repay the costs of the Seven Years War. He also passed many acts that implemented taxes such as the Stamp Act in 1765 and Sugar Act in 1764. In 1765, the Quartering Act was created by him.
IDENTIFICATIONS Lord North
The Tory prime minister and pliant aide to George III from 1770 to 1782. North's ineffective leadership and dogged insistence on colonial subordination contributed to the American Revolution.
George Grenville
British prime minister who fueled tensions between Britain and her North American colonies through his strict enforcement of navigation laws and his support for the Sugar and Stamp Acts.
Letter from a Farmer in Pennsylvania
John Dickinson, a lawyer and popular essayist foresees the possibility of future conflicts between the colonists and Great Britain but urges to not use violence as a solution.
Gaspee Incident
A British Royal Navy ship assigned to custom duty, the Gaspee, was boarded by a group of men led by John Brown. He wounded the lieutenant that was commandeering the ship and set the ship on fire.
Charles Townshend
He was in control of the British ministry and was nicknamed "Champagne Charley." He persuaded Parliament in 1767 to pass the Townshend Acts.
Baron Von Steuben
Stern, Prussian drillmaster, whipped American soldiers into shape. Turned the American militia into hardened battle-ready soldiers to fight the British.
Mercantilism
Economic theory that simply states a nation's power is determined by its wealth in gold. Also states that the colonies existed for the benefit of the mother country; they should add to its wealth, prosperity, and self-sufficiency.
"Virtual" representation
A theory that claimed that every member of Parliament represented all British subjects, even those in the colonies, who never voted for a member of the London Parliament.
Sons of Liberty
An organization established in 1765, these members (usually in middle/upper class) resisted the Stamp Act of 1765. Even though the Stamp Act was repealed in 1766, the SoL combined with the Daughters of Liberty and remained active in resistance movements.
Admiralty courts
Offenders of the Sugar Act of 1764 and the Stamp Act of 1765 were tried in courts with no juries where the defendant was presumed guilty until proven innocent. Americans felt their basic rights as Englishmen were being violated and the animosity created fuel for independence from England. Brewed discontent with the British power.
Committees of Correspondence
A letter-writing network, started by Sam Adams in Boston in 1772 to spread propaganda and secret information through letters. Used to sustain opposition to British policy. Committees were extremely effective and critical in building a revolutionary spirit amongst Americans. The Committees of Correspondence largely interfered with the British ambitions. The men in the Committee were later in the Congress.
First Continental Congress
A convention and a consultative body that met for 7 weeks, from September 5th to October 10th, 1774, in Philadelphia. All except Georgia sent 55 delegates. John Adams persuaded colleagues to start the revolution, and they wrote a Declaration of Rights and appeals to the British American colonies, the King, and the British people.
Loyalists (Tories)
A group of people that were loyal to the British crown. Initially its numbers were roughly equivalent to the number of patriots in the colonies. However, as the war progressed, more and more members of the neutral party joined the Patriots, leaving the Loyalists as the minority group in the colonies. They would eventually flee to Canada due to oppression and apprehension from the colonists.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: The Deep Roots of Revolution
1. Why does the author say that the American Revolution began when the first settlers stepped ashore?
The author says that the American revolution began when the first settlers stepped ashore because it signified a new people that became independent from exterior rule. Eventually, ideas brewed and were created. The colonists were reluctant revolutionaries, but it was only after the influence of British control over the colonies did it ignite the colonists for a stand for independence and revolution.
Mercantilism and Colonial Grievances
Know: Mercantilism, Navigation Laws, Royal Veto
2. Explain the economic theory of mercantilism and the role of colonies.
Mercantilism was a theory that wealth was power and that a country’s economic wealth and hence
its military and political power could be measured by the amount of gold or silver in its treasury.
3. How did Parliament enact the theory of mercantilism into policy?
Parliament used the Navigation Law of 1650 as well as enforcing tax policies for all forms of commerce in the colonies. Eventually, Parliament made it so that only the British could actually make a profit off of commerce in the colonies.
The Merits and Menace of Mercantilism
Know: Salutary Neglect, John Hancock, Bounties
4. In what ways did the mercantilist theory benefit the colonies?
Colonists made a profit off of ship parts sold to Britain, as well as having a monopoly of tobacco in the tobacco industry. Lastly, the colonists benefited from the protection of the world’s mightiest navy and a strong, seasoned army of redcoats.
5. What economic factors were involved in leading colonists to be displeased with the British government?
They had no say in the matter of the government in England, the parliament. They were forced to pay taxes as well as suffer from excessive acts passed by the Parliament without their approval. They eventually became so upset that they would rise and cause a revolution.
The Stamp Tax Uproar
Know: George Grenville, Sugar Act, Quartering Act, Stamp Act, Admiralty Courts, Virtual Representation
6. Why were the colonists so upset over relatively mild taxes and policies?
They interpreted the enactment of taxes as a direct attack to their liberties they had come to assume as a matter of a natural right. Furthermore, they interpreted it as a direct violation of the basic rights of the colonists as Englishmen.
Forced Repeal of the Stamp Act
Know: Stamp Act Congress, Non- importation Agreements, Homespun, Sons of Liberty, Declaratory Act
7. In what ways did colonists resist the Stamp Act?
The colonists decided to abstain and boycott British goods, rather, they looked toward natural goods that they could survive off of. Woolen garments became fashionable as they could be created off of sheep. Colonists also resorted to violence as a protest of the Stamp Act.
The Townshend Tea Tax and the Boston "Massacre"
Know: Townshend Acts, Indirect Tax, Boston Massacre, John Adams
8. How did the Townshend Acts lead to more difficulties?
It only further infuriated the colonists to rise against the British government. Once again they protested that they had no say in the matter and that there should be “no taxation without representation” even though if they really did have a representative there, they would easily be outvoted. Rather it seems that colonists simply did not want to pay taxes.
The Seditious Committees of Correspondence
Know: George III, Lord North, Samuel Adams, Committees of Correspondence
9. How did Committees of Correspondence work?
It worked to undermine the British attempts to shut down the patriots. Spies and message couriers were deeply intertwined inside British communications. The network was intricate enough so that the British struggled to communicate faster than the Committees of Correspondence.
Tea Brewing in Boston
Know: British East India Company, Boston Tea Party
10. What was the cause of the Boston Tea Party, and what was its significance?
The British decided to enforce their laws, which infuriated the colonists. In turn, the colonists refused to buy a single box of tea and that the tea is returned to England. Thomas Hutchinson stood against the colonists’ wrath, which in turn disguised themselves as Indian and dumped the tea into the harbor. It’s significance showed that the colonists are patriotic of what they believe in and that they’ll do whatever it takes to have their say in the matter.
Parliament Passes the "Intolerable Acts"
Know: Boston Port Act, Massachusetts Government Act, Administration of Justice Act, Quartering Act of 1774, Quebec Act
11. What was so intolerable about the Coercive (Intolerable) Acts?
The Intolerable Acts were outright intolerable due to the restrictions and enforcements of existing acts that were placed upon the colonists.
Bloodshed
Know: First Continental Congress, Declaration of Rights, The Association, Tar and Feathers, Minute Men, Lexington and Concord
12. What was the goal of the First Continental Congress?
The goal of the First Continental Congress was to consider ways to redress colonial grievances.
Imperial Strength and Weakness
Know: Hessians, Tories
13. What were British strengths and weaknesses at the outset of the war?
British Strengths: Strongest Navy, Strongest Army, Well-trained troops, economic power, loyalists
British weaknesses: Outside of homeland, across the Atlantic Ocean, American Patriots, Had to Capture the Entire Colonists land.
American Pluses and Minuses
Know: George Washington, Ben Franklin, Marquis de Lafayette, Continentals
14. What were the American strengths and weaknesses at the outset of the war?
American Strengths: Patriotic Spirit, Defensive War, Determination, Home Battle
American Weaknesses: Ordinary men, untrained troops, profiteers, lack of supplies and economic power.
A Thin Line of Heroes
Know: Valley Forge, Baron von Steuben, Continental Army
15. What role was played by African-Americans in the Revolution?
African-Americans served as soldiers both on the British flag and the Colonists flag. The African Americans were promised freedom if they joined the British. However, they were still treated as a lower social class than those of the Whites. Chapter #8: American Secedes from the Empire – Big Picture Themes 1. Nearly every advantage on paper went to Britain during the revolution. They had better troops, training, a much better navy, experienced generals, more money, better weapons and equipment.
2. The Americans had on their side heart and geography. America was very big and and ocean removed from England.
3. Perhaps due to necessity rather than plan, American employed a drawn-out strategy where the war drug on for six years. America won by constantly withdrawing to the nation’s interior and moving on to fight another day.
4. Meanwhile, as the war waged, the Declaration of Independence was written, signed, and approved.
5. The Treaty of Paris 1763 legitimized the new nation.
IDENTIFICATIONS: Second Continental Congress
Met in Philadelphia on May 10, 1775. Three delegates were added to the Congress were Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Hancock. The Congress took on governmental duties and united all the colonies for the war effort. They selected George Washington as commander of the army. They encouraged the colonies to set themselves up as states. On July 4, 1776 they adopted the Declaration of Independence. Ended March 7, 1781, when a Congress authorized by the Articles of Confederation took over.
Hessians
German soldiers hired by George III to smash colonial rebellion. More concerned about "booty than duty," didn't care which side won the war. They were considered “butchers” due to their fighting styles when hired.
Thomas Paine/Common Sense
Passionate and persuasive writer, published "Common Sense" in 1776, which had the radical idea that the colonies should set America as an independent, democratic republic away from England. Common Sense became popular in the colonies.
George Washington
A military leader in the French and Indian War who pulled his small force back into Fort Necessity where he was overwhelmed by the French. Commander of Virginia's frontier troops as a colonel. Later, he was Commander of the Continental Army during the Revolution. His greatest achievements: his surprise victory at Trenton, holding the army together at Valley Forge, and major victory at Yorktown. 1st president of the US, took office on Apr. 30, 1789 in NYC.
Marquis de Layfette
A wealthy French nobleman; he was made Major General of the colonial army. He got commission on part of his family but nevertheless supplied America with invaluable help.
Baron Von Steuban
Stern, Prussian drillmaster, whipped American soldiers into shape. He drilled the American untrained militia into hardened battle-ready soldier. Essential in the Revolutionary War for American victory.
John Burgoyne
British general that submitted a plan for invading NY from Canada. He was then given charge of the army. He surrendered at Saratoga on Oct. 17, 1777. This battle helped convince France into the war as an ally for the US.
Benedict Arnold
One of the greatest generals at the time for the US. However, he was jealous of Washington, who became the general of the Continental Army rather than he. He would later betray the Americans and be deemed a traitor.
Treaty of Paris, 1783
A treaty where British recognized the independence of the US. Granted boundaries, which stretched from the Mississippi River on the west to the Great Lakes on the north, and to Spanish Florida on the south. The Yankees retained a share of Newfoundland for fishing, which greatly upset the Canadians.
Battle of Trenton
On Christmas night in 1776 Washington led his troops back across Delaware. He surprised a force of Hessians that were camped at Trenton. The Americans took about 900 prisoners and a large store of supplies. Boosted American Morale even though the mercenaries were caught off guard.
Battles of Lexington and Concord
First military Engagements of the Revolutionary war, fought on April 19. 1775. There were about 700 Brit army men, and it was the first open fight between the colonies and Britain. Despite being outnumbered, the bridge limited the number of British troops that could engage. Eventually, the British would retreat due to excessive casualties.
Battle of Saratoga
Burgoyne sent an expedition to Bennington to capture American supplies but a force of New England militia met them and defeated them, his men were surrounded near Saratoga by the Continental Army, he surrendered. This battle was the turning point of the war and convinced France to aid the American cause.
Battle of Yorktown
The last major battle of the Revolutionary War. Here, General Cornwallis was surrounded on a peninsula by the French Navy and the American troops. Trapped, Cornwallis and his troops surrendered. This surrender marked the defeat of the British in the Revolutionary War.
Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation was an agreement among the 13 founding states that established the United States of America as a confederation of sovereign states and served as its first constitution. However, it eventually fell apart since it was poorly enforced, rather, it served as an outline.
GUIDED READING QUESTIONS: Congress Drafts George Washington
Know: Second Continental Congress, George Washington
1. Why was George Washington chosen as general of the American army?
He was a Virginian, so he came from the most powerful colony that was present in the pre-formed United States of America. He was tall, and he evoked a sense of patriotism. Furthermore, it was a strategic move so that Virginia would go and agree to take part.
Bunker Hill and Hessian Hirelings
Know: Ethan Allen, Benedict Arnold, Fort Ticonderoga, Bunker Hill, Redcoats, Olive Branch Petition, Hessians
2. George III "slammed the door on all hope of reconciliation." How and why?
George III hired Hessians to kill his own people, the colonists. The colonists appealed for peace but the King declared open war on the colonies. Thus, slamming the door on all hope of reconciliation.
The Abortive Conquest of Canada
Know: Richard Montgomery
3. Did the fighting go well for Americans before July of 1776? Explain.
Overall, the fighting did not go well for the Americans as they primarily on the run attempting to evade British pursuit.
Thomas Paine Preaches Common Sense
4. Why was Common Sense important?
A pamphlet written in America by Englishman Thomas Paine, published on January 10, 1776. It called for American independence and a union of the American colonies, and as propaganda, it influenced colonists to pursue both in the Revolutionary War.
Paine and the Idea of "Republicanism"
Know: Republic, Natural Aristocracy
5. Why did Paine want a democratic republic?
Paine wanted a democratic republic for the colonies so that the power flowed from the people themselves, rather than a possibly corrupt and despotic monarch. This way, he argued, the people can keep in check on the representatives they have chosen to represent them. There would be less odds of corruption and absolute rule.
Jefferson's "Explanation" of Independence
Know: Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Declaration of Independence, Natural Rights
6. What does the Declaration of Independence say?
It declared the natural rights of humankind. It also protested against imposing taxes without consent, dispensing with trial by jury, abolishing valued laws, establishing a military dictatorship, maintaining standing armies in peacetime, cutting off trade, burning towns, hiring mrecenaries, and inciting hostility among the Indians.
Patriots and Loyalists
Know: Patrick Henry
7. What kinds of people were Loyalists?
The Loyalists were primarily those who were middle aged who had “things to lose.” They stayed loyal to the British crown and did not want a war with their home country. Their numbers mirrored the number of Patriots; however, over time, more and more colonists joined the Patriots and the Loyalists soon became the minority.
Makers of America: The Loyalists
8. What happened to Loyalists after the war?
They primarily fled to Canada to evade persecution and oppression.
The Loyalist Exodus
9. What happened to Loyalists during the war?
They faced oppression and persecution from the Patriots. After the Declaration of Independence, harsher methods used on the Loyalists emerged. Loyalists were roughly handled, hundreds were imprisoned, and a few noncombatants were hanged.
Burgoyne's Blundering Invasion
Know: John Burgoyne, Benedict Arnold, Saratoga, Horatio Gates
10. Why did the Americans win the battle of Saratoga? Why was it significant?
The Americans won the battle of Saratoga in part because of the training given to them by Baron von Steuben. In addition, the British troops found themselves trapped and were forced to surrender. This marked a victory for the American colonists and would convince France to come into the war to join the colonists’ cause.
Revolution in Diplomacy?
11. Why did the French help America win independence?
The British were the French’s enemies for a while. So as the phrase goes, “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” ends up having France on the Revolutionaries’ side.
The Colonial War Becomes a Wider War
Know: Armed Neutrality
12. Why was foreign aid so important to the American cause?
France provided weapons, supplies, and troops to back up the Americans. At Yorktown, it was the French Navy that surrounded General Cornwallis at the peninsula that forced him to surrender since he was cut off from British naval assistance.
Blow and Counterblow
Know: Nathaniel Greene, Charles Cornwallis
13. Would an American Patriot, reading news of the war in 1780, have been happy about the way the war was going? Explain.
No, as the darkest periods of the war was between 1780-1781. Inflation of the currency continued at full gallop. The government was virtually bankrupt and declared that it would repay many of its debts at the rate of only 2.5 cents on the dollar .despair prevailed, the sense of unity withered, and mutinous sentiments infected the army.
The Land Frontier and the Sea Frontier
Know: Iroquois Confederacy, Fort Stanwix, George Rogers Clarke, John Paul Jones, Privateers
14. Was frontier fighting important in the outcome of the war?
Frontier fighting was sparsely used by the Continental Army. Rather, the colonists favored guerilla warfare where they could fire their weapons at the British under cover with little to no retaliation. This fighting style became one of the major factors that led to the British’s downfall.
Yorktown and the Final Curtain
Know: Charles Cornwallis, Yorktown
15. If the war did not end at Yorktown, then why was it important?
It virtually turned the tides of the war between the British and the colonists. The British citizens became weary of war and the debts and troubles that it brought them. Eventually, a treaty was negotiated at Paris, which would be known today as the Treaty of Paris.
Peace at Paris
Know: Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, John Jay, Treaty of Paris
16. What did America gain and what did it concede in the Treaty of Paris?
America gained British’s recognition of the United States. In addition, they granted generous boundaries, stretching from the Mississippi on the west, to the Great Lakes on the north, and to Spanish Florida on the South. In turn, Americans had to stop persecuting the Loyalists and that loyalists’ property be returned to them. Furthermore, Britain wanted the Americans to repay their debts to British lenders.
A New Nation Legitimized
Know: Whigs
17 Did Americans get favorable terms in the Treaty of Paris? Explain.
Yes, they gained independence, large grants of land, and proved to the world that they were a united country. American pride surged, and peace was resumed in the colonies.
Whose Revolution?
18. Which of the interpretations of the Revolution seems most true to you? Least true? Explain.
I think the most true part of the Revolution is that Americans won by a combination of sheer luck and through Patriotic determination. The Americans never gave up, and they stuck it through until the very end. I do not believe however, that the Revolution was caused by the British. Objectively, the colonists overreacted to taxes that were enacted on them for the cost of protecting them in the French and Indian War.