American Revolution

American Discontent The 13 Colonies Boston, New York, & Philadelphia Britain wanted the colonies to pay taxes Colonists cried “No Taxation, Without Representation”

American Discontent Violence Boston Massacre – British soldiers killed 5 protesters Boston Tea Party – Colonists threw tea into the harbor

American Discontent Congress set up a Continental Army led by George Washington Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence It declared popular sovereignty

American Discontent July 4, 1776 – America becomes independent

The American Revolution Begins The British had professional soldiers, a huge fleet of ships, and lots of money 1/3 of the Colonists were Loyalist

The Long Struggle to Victory The Colonies had little money But they were fighting for their land!

The Long Struggle to Victory Colonies had France, Spain and the Netherlands as Allies 1781 – The Treaty of Paris was signed and the war ended

A New Constitution 1787 – The Constitution was created Created a federal republic Power divided between national and state government

A New Constitution Three branches of government Legislative, executive, and judicial Bill of Rights – first 10 Amendments in the constitutions

A New Constitution These include – freedom of religion, speech and press