1. The American Revolution
The Birth of a Nation.

2. Main Idea-Revolution
Enlightenment ideas helped inspire the American colonies to shed British rule and create a nation.

4. Why it Matters Now
The Revolution created a republic, The United States of America, and it became a model for many nations of the world.

5. Names and Terms Declaration of Independence Thomas Jefferson
Checks and Balances
Federal System
Bill of Rights

6. Setting the Stage
Philosophes such as Voltaire and others challenged the old order. (divine right of kings)
Colonists in America were emboldened to expand rights and overthrow British rule.

7. Britain and its American Colonies
Enlightenment ideas, growth in population gave colonists a sense of independent identity from Britain.

8. Americans Win Independence
After the French- Indian War Britain was in debt and tried to raise new taxes to pay for the war.
Stamp Act angered the colonists.

9. Americans Win Independence- Growing Hostility leads to War
The Tea Tax led to the Boston tea party.
Britain continued to try to tax and control colonies:
First fighting: in Lexington and Concord.

10. Americans Win Independence- Influence of Enlightenment
Colonists felt that King George III had broken the social contract
Jefferson writes Declaration of Independence: Based on Enlightenment ideas.

11. Britain and its American colonies- Changing Idea
Old Idea: American colonists considered themselves British citizens.
New Idea: After a long train of abuses, Americans considered themselves independent.

12. Americans win Independence- Success for Colonists
Although British Army more advanced, Americans began to wear them down.
Americans: More motivated, fighting on home turf, and had greater numbers.

13. Americans Create a Republic- A Weak National Government
Creation of continental congress. Weak and ineffective.
Although Americans were afraid of strong government, Articles of confederation were too weak.

14. Americans Create a Republic- A New Constitution
Colonies met to create a new constitution. First session may 1787
55 delegates understood enlightenment ideas of Locke, Montesquieu, Rosseau

15. Americans Create a Republic- Federal System
Created a system with separation of powers, checks and balances.
Founders feared a government that was too powerful.

17. Americans Create a Republic- Bill of rights
Bill of Rights: Put in writing specific liberties for people, and specific limitations of government.
Freedom of/from religion, speech, assembly & press.