HIS 405 US History Week Two Discussion

Name

Chamberlain University

HIS-405 US History

Prof. Name

Date

The American Revolution: From Loyal Subjects to Revolutionary Patriots

Introduction

The journey of the British colonists in America is a remarkable tale of transformation, as they evolved from loyal subjects of the British crown to passionate revolutionaries who played a pivotal role in drafting and supporting the Declaration of Independence. The roots of the American Revolution are complex, primarily arising from the financial burdens that Britain faced following the expensive French and Indian War.

The Burden of British Debt

In an effort to manage the national debt, King George III imposed a series of taxes on the colonists. This marked a significant shift from the relative autonomy the colonies had enjoyed. The colonists, feeling unfairly targeted by these taxes, began to express their discontent through active boycotts of British goods. Their refusal to contribute to the British economy highlighted a growing sense of resentment and the desire for independence.

The Boston Tea Party: A Turning Point

One of the most iconic moments in this escalating tension was the Boston Tea Party. Disguised as Native Americans, colonists boarded a British ship in Boston Harbor that was laden with tea from the UK. In a bold act of defiance, they dumped the ship’s cargo into the harbor, signaling their rejection of British authority and taxation without representation.

The Intolerable Acts: A Heavy Hand

In retaliation for the Boston Tea Party, King George III enacted the Intolerable Acts. These measures forced colonists to house British soldiers, altered the governance of Massachusetts, and replaced elected officials with royal appointees. Furthermore, Boston’s port was closed to all trade except with Britain, effectively punishing the colonists until they compensated for the destroyed tea. This only deepened the divide between Britain and the colonies.

Rising Tensions and the Quest for Self-Governance

As Britain sought to quell the rebellious spirit of the colonists, it also extended certain rights to the French inhabitants of Canada, hoping to undermine American influence in the region. The cumulative grievances—the desire for self-governance, individual liberties, and an end to oppressive taxation—ignited the flames of revolution, leading to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

The First Continental Congress: Seeking Resolution

In response to the escalating situation, the seeds of the First Continental Congress were sown. Delegates from various colonies convened to discuss their grievances and to reach out to King George III in a plea for resolution. However, the king’s refusal to negotiate and threats of further punishment left the Congress with no choice but to move forward with the Declaration of Independence, marking the official beginning of their struggle for sovereignty.

Principles of Independence: A New Vision

This pivotal moment in American history introduced profound ideals that would shape the nation, such as the belief in inalienable rights and the assertion that all men are created equal. These principles altered the trajectory of American society, laying the groundwork for a new nation built on freedom and equality.

The Articles of Confederation: Early Challenges

Following independence, the Articles of Confederation emerged as the first federal constitution of the United States. However, it faced significant challenges that ultimately necessitated the Constitutional Convention in 1787. The most pressing issue was the fragile state of the American economy, exacerbated by widespread opposition to taxation. The Confederation Congress found itself powerless to impose taxes and was forced to rely on voluntary contributions from the states, which were rarely forthcoming, deepening the national debt.

The Aftermath of War: Economic Strain

The economic strain was further complicated by the Treaty of Paris in 1783, which mandated that Americans repay debts owed to British creditors. This situation allowed the British to litigate against American non-payment, straining relations even further. The Confederation Congress struggled to regulate trade effectively, particularly as British goods continued to flood the market.

A Call for Change: The Constitutional Convention

Recognizing the urgent need to address these pressing economic issues and the unsustainable debt, Congress sought a more robust government model. This led to the introduction of a system of checks and balances, dividing power among three branches of government. This significant shift laid the foundation for the United States Constitution, contrasting sharply with the limitations of the Articles of Confederation and establishing a framework for a more effective national government.

Conclusion

The evolution of the American colonies from loyal subjects to fervent revolutionaries is a testament to the power of collective action and the desire for self-determination. The events leading to the Declaration of Independence and the subsequent formation of the Constitution not only marked the birth of a new nation but also established enduring principles of democracy, individual rights, and governance that continue to resonate today.

References

Boston Massacre Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved from Land of the Brave

Brackemyre, T. (2018). The Quebec Act: British Legislation in Canada and the American Outcome. Retrieved from U.S. History Scene

Constitutional Convention and Ratification, 1787-1789. (n.d.). Retrieved from U.S. Department of State

HIS 405 US History Week Two Discussion

Keene, J. D., Cornell, S. T., & Donnell, E. T. (2011). Visions of America: A History of the United States (2nd ed.). [VitalSource]. Retrieved from VitalSource Online