Causes of the American Revolution

Mission Brief #65

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Walk into the past. Find out who, what, and why.

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The same event looks different depending on who's telling the story.

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The American Revolution was sparked by several important causes that influenced the colonists' desire for independence from British rule. One major cause was the growing discontent among the colonies due to British taxes imposed without their consent.

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Additionally, the Enlightenment ideas about liberty and self-governance inspired colonists to question the authority of the British monarchy. These factors combined to create a strong yearning for freedom and self-determination among the American colonists.

Key facts

Remember these

1The American Revolution began in 1775 and lasted until 1783.
2Colonial leaders like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson played crucial roles in advocating for independence.
3The slogan 'No taxation without representation' became a rallying cry for colonists.

Timeline · 1 of 2

When it happened

1763
The French and Indian War ends, leaving Britain deep in debt
1765
Parliament taxes the colonies with the Stamp Act
1767
The Townshend Acts tax imported goods
1773
Colonists protest the Tea Act with the Boston Tea Party

Timeline · 2 of 2

1774
Parliament punishes Massachusetts with the Intolerable Acts

Then & Now

People still argue about this. Now you'll see why.

Mind = blown

John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826 — exactly 50 years after the Declaration was adopted.

Question 1 of 2

What was a major cause of the American Revolution?

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Question 2 of 2

Which Enlightenment idea inspired the colonists to seek independence?

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