Starter

• What are the four main ideas found in the Declaration of Independence?

Enlightenment Thinkers

Enlightenment Thinkers

Describe each person’s philosophy/beliefs

Thomas Hobbes (p 21)

John Locke (p. 34-35)

Montesquieu (p. 35)

Rousseau (p. 25 & 35)

Voltaire (French) Civil Liberties: freedom of religion, right to a fair trial; Against slavery; free trade

American Revolution

1.2 and 1.3 Events and Ideas of the American Revoution

War Begans

• The 1st fighting of the revolution is at Lexington & Concord, Mass. The colonists make a stand & slaughter many British.

• May 1775, delegates meet to discuss & debate the war at the 2nd Continental Congress. They argued over whether or not to fight. Decided to fight so organized a continental army.

• We called the British the redcoats. Americans were the patriots.

Bloody Beginning

• The 1st battle of the war was at Bunker Hill. Huge casualties for both sides. The British won, but it was the bloodiest battle of the war!

• Colonists tried for peace again. Sent Olive Branch Petition to King George asking for peace, but he rejected it.

Why Fight?

• Thomas Paine wrote Common Sense that said colonists should fight for independence. It was our “destiny”. Changed Americans!

• July 2, 1776, delegate at the Continental Congress voted & adopted the Declaration of Independence. (p. 102)

Division

• American Revolution divided Americas. They were forced to choose sides:

• 1. Loyalists-loyal to king, opposed revolution & independence

• 2. Patriots-wanted independence (½ of population were patriots)

• 3. Neutral-not on either side

Battles of the American Revolution

• Saragota-American troops won, British General Burgoyne surrendered. Turning point of war.

• Yorktown: British surrender on Oct. 17, 1781.

End of War

• Treaty of Paris signed Sept 1783 giving Americans their independence. Americans believe in equality for all & have the challenge ahead of setting up new government!!