The American Revolution

Enlightenment ideas influenced the American colonies to overthrow British rule and create a new nation. The revolution created a republic. Became a model for many nations in the world.

Growing ColoniesBooming population:

1700 - 250,000 1770 - 2,150,000

Thrived on trade with European countries. Each colony had its own government. Still expected to obey British law.

War Brings Tension1754-1763 - French and Indian War England won and took over almost all French land in North America.

England spent a lot of $$$ fighting the war, expected colonists to help pay for costs.

1765, Parliament passes the Stamp Act Stamp Act - Colonists had to pay a tax to have a stamp put on wills, deeds, newspapers, and other printed things.

Colonists argued that Stamp Act violated their natural rights. “No taxation without representation.” The colonists had no representatives in Parliament.

Boston Tea PartyOutraged by an import tax on tea, colonists dumped a big shipment of British tea into Boston Harbor. King George III ordered the British navy to close the port of Boston. 1st Continental Congress was formed to protest the treatment of Boston.

2nd Continental Congress

King George didn’t pay attention to complaints over Boston. Colonies reacted by forming another Continental Congress. After fighting at Lexington-Concord, The Congress voted to raise an army under Virginian George Washington.

Americans Gain IndependenceAfter early defeats, the colonists turned the tide of the war. 1. Motivation for fighting was stronger than the British;

defending their homeland. 2. Overconfident British generals made mistakes. 3. Very expensive for British, had limited time to win war.

A French AllyAiming to weaken their European rival, France joined the war on the Colonies’ side.

Politically motivated. Proved decisive, they overmatched British forces.

Articles of Confederation

In order to protect their independence, the States created a weak national government. After many problems, they created a new Constitution with the Bill of Rights, 3 separate branches, divided power between national and state governments.

Enlightenment Ideas US Constitution

Locke - A government’s power comes from the consent of the people.

Creates representative form of government. Limits governments powers.

Montesquieu - Separation of PowersFederal System of government. Powers divided among 3 branches. Check and balances.

Rousseau - Direct Democracy Public election of president and Congress.

Voltaire - Free speech, religious toleration. Bill of Rights provides for freedom of speech and religion.

Beccaria - Accused have rights, no torture Bill of Rights protects rights of accused and prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.