1. The American Revolution
Warm-Up  answer in your notes:
Were the American colonists justified in rebelling against British rule? Why?

2. 4 Perspectives to Consider
British Gov’t
They have right to control Am. colonies
All citizens of Britain, no matter where you live, were represented by Parliament
All citizens have to obey British laws
All citizens have to pay British taxes

3. “Protection and obedience are reciprocal
“Protection and obedience are reciprocal. Great Britain protects America; America is bound to yield obedience The nation [Great Britain] has run herself into an immense debt to give them their protection; and now, when they are called upon to contribute a small share toward the public expense, an expense arising from themselves, they renounce your authority.”
—George Grenville, from a speech in 1766

4. The Loyalists Stay with British Empire
Generally religious leaders, wealthy landowners or government workers
Had different motives
devoted to king
believed it was best for all
feared loss of land of jobs
self interest

5. “That much of our former felicity was owing to the protection of England is not to be denied; and that we might still derive great advantages from her protection and friendship is equally certain We have long flourished under our Charter Government. What may be the consequences of another form we cannot pronounce with certainty; but this we know, that it is a road we have not travelled, and may be worse than it is described.”
—William Smith, Anglican minister, 1776

6. The Moderates Disagreed with British policy, but would not open rebel
Sought for a peaceful solution to the conflict between the colonists and Britain
Some were practical and may have lived to far away to be affected or get involved or were to busy
Others had religious beliefs that prevented the from fighting

7. “Every government at some time or other falls into wrong measures
“Every government at some time or other falls into wrong measures. These may proceed from mistake or passion. But every such measure does not dissolve the obligation between the governors and the governed. The mistake may be corrected; the passion may subside. It is the duty of the governed to endeavor to rectify the mistake, and to appease the passion.”
—John Dickinson, lawyer and colonial delegate, 1767

8. The Patriots
They believed that the colonies must free themselves from British rule through armed struggle
merchants; angry about British taxes
lawyers; believed colonies should have more say in making own laws
working people; believed independence would improve economic conditions.

9. “We are invaded with fleets and Armies, our commerce not only obstructed, but totally ruined, the courts of Justice shut, many driven out from the Metropolis [Boston], thousands reduced to want, or dependent upon the charity of their neighbors for a daily supply of food, all the Horrors of a civil war threatening us on one hand, and the chains of Slavery ready forged for us on the other.”
—Abigail Adams, from a letter written in 1774