1. Declaring Independence United States History

2. Battles of Lexington and Concord First battles of the American Revolution Small towns outside of Boston, Massachusetts Redcoats (British) come to seize weapons from colonists. Colonists are tipped off by Paul Revere. Patriot causalities are light; redcoats retreat to Boston. Official start of the war – “Shot Heard Round the World”

3. Patriot SoldierRedcoat (British Soldier)

4. Loyalists vs. Patriots Not all colonists wanted independence. Olive Branch Petition – Colonists are loyal to King George III, but not to parliament. – King rejects petition, sends more troops. Loyalists (20%) wanted to stay loyal to England. – Opposed taxes, but did not support Revolution. – Did not agree with Patriot policies Patriots wanted independence.

5. Cartoon by Benjamin Franklin

6. Philosophical Foundations of the Declaration of Independence Thomas Paine – English immigrant – The real T-Paine Wrote Common Sense (pamphlet) – 150,000+ copies produced – Argued for independence from Britain and unity between 13 colonies. – The “common man” should have as much opportunity as a king.

7. The Declaration on Independence Influence by Common Sense Written July 2 nd - July 4 th, 1776. Written primarily by Thomas Jefferson. – List of grievances – “All Men are Created Equal” – “Life, Liberty, Pursuit of Happiness.” Independence declared, but not yet achieved!

8. Jefferson