SSUSH4 THE REVOLUTION BEGINS

Sources of the Declaration of Independence

Writing of John Locke English philosopher Provided insight into morals and forms of government "The Philosopher of Freedom." most renowned for his political theory characterized by reason and tolerance; all people were equal and independent

Locke The policy of governmental checks and balances, as delineated in the Constitution of the United States, was set down by Locke, as was the doctrine that revolution in some circumstances is not only a right but an obligation.

Role of Thomas Jefferson Given credit for the Declaration Independence. Delegate from VA who was chosen to express committee’s desire for freedom. He drew on concepts of Locke & Montesquieu.

Valley Forge

Valley Forge, Pennsylvania Winter Campsite of American Continental Army Great suffering in snow and ice (Shuylkill River frozen over) Washington despaired "that unless some great and capital change suddenly takes place... this Army must inevitably... Starve, dissolve, or disperse, in order to obtain subsistence in the best manner they can."

Life of a common soldier Soldiers struggled to stay alive through the bitter cold.

Crossing the Delaware River

Battle of Trenton 1776: Washington and his troops crossed the icy Delaware River for a surprise attack on the night of Christmas The Continental Army quietly approached Trenton, New Jersey and defeated the Hessians

December 1776

The role of Benjamin Franklin Continental Congress sends Franklin to Paris to work for an alliance. France sends money and supplies in secret, but no public support. After Saratoga, Franklin signs a Treaty of Alliance with France

Battle of Saratoga (1777) British seek to cut off New England from colonies. Colonial General Horatio Gates defeats large British force at Saratoga. This victory convinces the French that colonials have a chance to win. French become allies to the Continental Army.

The French signed a treaty of cooperation French retaliation against the British Aided Independence movement with supplies and men.

Marquis de Lafayette Brave, idealistic 20 yr. old French aristocrat. Joined Washington and the misery at Valley Forge. Led a command in VA for the last years of war.

The role of Lord Cornwallis Ambitious British general who led victories in the South. His biggest mistake: Led 7,500 troops onto peninsula between James/York Rivers to camp at YORKTOWN.

Battle of Yorktown (1781) Troops under British General Cornwallis are backed up against water at Yorktown. French Navy blockades York River –British cannot re-supply or escape. French and Colonial troops surround town. –After several small battles, Cornwallis surrenders. –The last major battle of the war.

Battle of Yorktown

Treaty of Paris, 1783 John Adams, Ben Franklin, & John Jay demanded the Britain to recognize American independence. Confirmed U.S. independence. Set boundaries of the new nation.

Impact of War Idea of liberty spreads throughout the world, leading to revolutions ever since. This was a radical concept in a world that long accepted the idea of human inequality. In the US, only white males gain true freedom. –However, seeds of change are planted for women, and slaves. –Indians make out terrible, pushed farther west