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Roots of the American Revolution: Key Factors and Motivations

Discover the essential causes of the American Revolution, from colonists' pursuit of independence and economic freedom to British policies that fueled discontent. Explore how religious, political, and social factors played a role in shaping the revolutionary movement.

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Roots of the American Revolution: Key Factors and Motivations

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  1. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • American colonists were already accustomed to independence • Salutary neglect and separation from England fostered independence • Religious and/or economic freedom motivated many to come to colonies originally

  2. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Unwise British policies hurt vital interests of merchants, manufacturers, speculators; caused groups to unite • Harmful policies included: Stamp Act, Sugar Act, Townshend Act, Quatering Act, Intolerable Acts

  3. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Political status of colonies in English Parliament • English believed in virtual representation as justified by Grenville in 1764 • Colonists wanted direct representation on Parliament; did not want to be subordinated any longer

  4. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Sharp class distinction between English and colonists • English enjoyed more privileges • Colonists often were held in contempt by English; did not like being treated like second class citizens

  5. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Locke’s philosophy • Natural rights of man and Social Contract were used by colonists to rationalize independence movement

  6. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Independence was economically feasible • Colonists realized they had rich land and mineral resources • Prospects of gaining foreign aid (especially from France) were promising

  7. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Geographic separation • Colonists had already formed a unique culture/society • English settlers had become “Americanized” • 1/3 of colonial population from outside England

  8. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • Religion • Strong dislike of English Anglicans by colonial Protestants • Colonists feared appointment of Anglican bishop in colonies

  9. FUNDAMENTAL CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION • British reorganization of colonial system in 1763 provoked resistance • Colonies were more independent and confident • Increasing taxes (after F&I War) during depression and restricting currency supply adversely impacted colonial economy

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