The American Revolution, a pivotal moment in world history, wasn't a spontaneous event. It was the culmination of decades of simmering tensions between Great Britain and its thirteen American colonies. This webquest will guide you through the key factors that fueled this revolutionary fire, helping you understand the complex interplay of events and ideologies that led to the birth of a new nation.
Section 1: The Seeds of Discontent (1763-1774)
Objective: Identify the major British policies that sparked colonial resentment and resistance.
Tasks:
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The French and Indian War's Aftermath: Research the impact of the French and Indian War (Seven Years' War) on the British Empire's finances and its relationship with the American colonies. Consider the British perspective and the colonial perspective. What were the immediate consequences for both sides?
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Taxation Without Representation: Investigate the various acts passed by the British Parliament (Stamp Act, Townshend Acts, Tea Act) and analyze the colonists' responses. What arguments did colonists use to justify their opposition to these taxes? How did these acts contribute to growing tensions? Consider specific examples of colonial protests and boycotts.
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The Intolerable Acts: Examine the Intolerable Acts (also known as the Coercive Acts) passed by the British Parliament in response to the Boston Tea Party. What were these acts designed to achieve? How did they further inflame colonial sentiment and push the colonies closer to rebellion?
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The First Continental Congress: Explore the formation and goals of the First Continental Congress. What actions did the Congress take? What was the prevailing mood among delegates? How did this assembly represent a shift in the relationship between Britain and its colonies?
Section 2: The Philosophies of Revolution (1760s-1770s)
Objective: Understand the intellectual and philosophical underpinnings of the American Revolution.
Tasks:
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Enlightenment Ideals: Research the influence of Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau on colonial thought. How did their ideas on natural rights, popular sovereignty, and the social contract inform the colonists' arguments for independence?
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Republicanism vs. Monarchy: Compare and contrast the ideals of republicanism and monarchy. How did these differing political ideologies contribute to the growing divide between Great Britain and the colonies?
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Colonial Identity: Analyze the development of a distinct colonial identity separate from British identity. What factors contributed to this growing sense of separateness? How did this identity shape the colonists' willingness to fight for independence?
Section 3: The Road to War (1775-1776)
Objective: Trace the events that led to the outbreak of armed conflict between Great Britain and the American colonies.
Tasks:
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Lexington and Concord: Research the battles of Lexington and Concord. What events triggered these clashes? What was the significance of these battles in escalating the conflict?
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The Second Continental Congress: Explore the actions and decisions of the Second Continental Congress. What steps did the Congress take to prepare for war? How did the Congress's actions reflect the growing commitment to independence?
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Common Sense and the Declaration of Independence: Analyze Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" and the Declaration of Independence. What were the key arguments presented in each document? How did these documents contribute to the growing support for independence among the colonists? What were the core philosophical underpinnings of the Declaration?
Conclusion: Synthesizing the Causes
After completing this webquest, write a short essay (at least 500 words) summarizing the major causes of the American Revolution. Your essay should integrate information from all three sections, demonstrating a clear understanding of the complex interplay of political, economic, and philosophical factors that led to the outbreak of the war. Be sure to support your analysis with specific examples and evidence.
This webquest encourages deeper engagement with the topic, moving beyond simple memorization to a more nuanced understanding of the complex historical events that shaped the American Revolution. Remember to cite your sources appropriately.
