1. Revolutionary Era Essay
To what extent did the Revolutionary Era result in dramatic social and political change? Use your knowledge of American history from to answer the question.

2. Political Revolution From colonies to a democratic republic
Created the United States
New political significance to the middling elements of society
Artisans, merchants, farmers
Popular participation in politics increased
Leaders of government were less wealthy

3. Political Revolution
Commitment to radical ideas of liberty, equality, and government by the people
Modern idea of a written constitution approved by the people
State constitutions embodied republican principles
State constitutions gave greater power to legislature rather than governors
Guarantees of religious freedom

4. Social Revolution - Religion
Growing belief in separation of church and state
End of tax supported churches/churches disestablished
Rise of religious pluralism (increased religious diversity)
No religious test for office built into Constitution
1st Amendment (no “establishment” of religion by government and the “free exercise” of religion for all

5. Social Revolution - Slavery
Slavery transformed to a moral problem
Many slaves escaped or were freed during the Rev. War
Free blacks the fastest growing part of the population
Slavery became a purely sectional institution
Northern states abolished or gradually abolished slavery

6. Social Revolution - Slavery
Northwest Ordinance abolished slavery in NW Territory
Pseudo-scientific racism – the notion that science proves the inferiority and superiority of certain races
Constitution gave Congress the power to enforce a fugitive slave law
3/5 Compromise enhanced power of South
Free blacks still denied most rights
No vote some states, did have vote elsewhere, no citizenship,

7. Social Revolution - Women
Republican Motherhood – the increased importance of women in raising virtuous citizens that are necessary in a republic
Female literacy rises
Contributed to family income in new ways
Increased rights to divorce and custody of children
Free choice in marriage; began to limit births
Still denied vote, higher ed, and the professions

8. Social Revolution – Natives
Pontiac’s Rebellion – 1763
The Revolutionary War paved the way for westward expansion
The Battle of Fallen Timbers
The Zinn Word Doc on Website Page 2 addresses this issue as well

9. Social Revolution - Class
Historian Howard Zinn (the revolution was conservative)
Historian Gordon Wood – went from vertical society to a horizontal society
***Go to website page 2 for the details