ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE

What were the differences between the needs of the colonists and the British Empire?

The needs of the colonists The colonists desired the ability to pursue their own economic and political pursuits. The removal of the French threat removed the only valid need of the British Empire, protection The colonists were like a teenager, having ability and wanting more

Needs of the British The French-Indian War has left them bankrupt, and realizing the colonies are drifting outside of control. The colonies were critical to the aging concept of mercantilism. The American colonies breaking away could threaten other colonies.

Discontent Begins Britain pass the Sugar Act, a tariff, to both gain money and stop the constant smuggling of the colonists. About 10,000 British troops remain. Why? In the eyes of the colonists

Words become action Britain pass the Stamp Act, a direct tax, which could be considered a tipping point for some colonists. It taxed dice, newspapers, legal papers, birth/death certificates The act angers not only merchants, but virtually all colonists. The act leads to the creation of the Sons of Liberty and Stamp Act Congress

Action leads to Results Merchants in the Northeast boycott paying the tax and trade w/Britain The colonists issue the Declaration of Rights and Grievances. Britain repeals the Stamp Act, but issues the Declaratory Act which states they can do what they wish to the colonies, the colonies don’t care.

Colonial Propaganda Propaganda is the act of presenting information in a way that sends a message. It can be truthful or false, much like today’s advertisement. Samuel Adams was a master at propaganda. The accounts of the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party were examples of it.