was the american revolution virtuous essay

Everything you've ever wanted to know about the American Revolution

Was the American Revolution Virtuous?

About the author.

Edward A. St. Germain created AmericanRevolution.org in 1996. He was an avid historian with a keen interest in the Revolutionary War and American culture and society in the 18th century. On this website, he created and collated a huge collection of articles, images, and other media pertaining to the American Revolution. Edward was also a Vietnam veteran, and his investigative skills led to a career as a private detective in later life.

The American Revolution was virtuous in some respects, but the movement also failed to consistently uphold its ideals in others areas.

The Revolutionary War enabled the United States to become self-governing. It led to the ratification of the United States Constitution, which promoted rights and liberties available to all men, in theory.

However, while the Founding Fathers espoused equal rights for all, and individual freedoms, many were also tolerant of slavery, or owned slaves themselves. After the war ended, Native Americans continued to face oppression, violence, and the destruction of their culture at the hands of the US government.

The virtuous argument

In the minds of Patriot leaders, the revolutionaries were fighting a virtuous war against a tyrannical British government.

In the 1760s, the British implemented a number of new taxes on the colonists.

These taxes were supposed to help fund the continued presence of the British Army on the continent. In the minds of the British leaders, their colonies existed to help them raise revenue – and after the Seven Years’ War with France, the country was in a huge amount of debt.

The Patriot colonists considered taxes such as the Stamp Act hugely unjust. They did not feel the need for the British Army’s protection, and were incensed that they did not receive any representation in British parliament in return for the taxes they paid. While many people were still loyal to the British Crown, there was growing discontent with the monarchy, and its strict, autocratic style of governance.

As a result, there was huge political backlash, including petitions to the King of England, and public protests, leading to instances of civil unrest, such as the famous Boston Tea Party.

The British repealed the Stamp Act, but it was immediately followed by the passing of additional laws that the colonists would not stand for.

In their minds, the Patriots were standing up for the rights of their people, against a tyrannical government. At the beginning of the war, their revolt was virtuous, although self-interest did play a role, since the rebels also aimed to protect their wealth from the British taxman.

Patriot ideals

The revolutionaries espoused a number of virtuous ideals, at least on face value.

Patriot leaders such as Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson wrote that all Americans had the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. They argued that it was the colonists’ duty to fight for self-determination.

A huge emphasis was also placed on personal freedoms. Influenced by Enlightenment principles, a school of philosophy that was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, revolutionary leaders argued that men had irrevocable individual liberties, such as freedom of speech, which would later be enshrined in the US Constitution.

It is certainly arguable that the colonist cause was righteous.

The British were implementing “taxation without representation”, as the Patriots labeled it. And when the colonists petitioned the British government, their complaints fell on deaf ears.

At the end of the Revolution, the American people were able to govern themselves, and were no longer subject to arbitrary taxes that they had no say on.

It is also arguable that the American Revolution inspired other similar movements against tyrannical governments in different parts of the world, such as the French Revolution. Some French Revolutionary leaders fought alongside the Americans, and brought home ideals and experiences that helped to ignite the French Revolution.

How virtuous was the Revolution in practice?

While the ideals espoused by revolutionary leaders were virtuous, in practice the idealism of the revolution left a lot to be desired.

In the decades after the war was won, the values that the Patriot leaders espoused primarily applied to the white male population of America.

• Native Americans saw promises regarding the sovereignty of their land broken by the US Government. Settlers continually encroached on tribal lands, leading to the destruction of native communities and culture.
• Slavery continued to exist in many states, and freed slaves, including those who fought, were not afforded many of the rights and liberties proffered to the white population.
• Having participated in the war effort, such as by working in hospitals, and in the Continental Army’s supply chain, women were expected to return to their roles as housewives.

None of the aforementioned groups were allowed to vote or run for office. In fact, many states had land ownership requirements for voting, meaning only wealthy white males could participate politically.

After the war, some Loyalists also found themselves at risk of persecution, and many had to leave the country for Canada or Great Britain.

The ideals of the new nation defined in the Declaration of Independence were not applied equally across all parts of society. Minority groups did not enjoy the universal right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that the Patriots were supposedly fighting for.

It is also arguable that for the average person, even someone who enjoyed the rights set out in the Constitution, the American Revolution did not lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life.

In the late 18th century, America was in social and economic turmoil, and the nation would only begin to see consistent peace and prosperity more than half a century later, after the end of the Civil War.

Although the United States did experience economic growth in the early 19th century, on the back of westward expansion and increased industrialization, the Revolution itself did not lead to a significant increase in the average person’s quality of life in the short term.

Was the American Revolution virtuous?

The American Revolution was virtuous in theory, but not in practice.

The colonists were fighting a righteous cause, against a tyrannical British government. And by revolting against the British, Patriot leaders wanted to grant the American people new liberties, political freedoms, and individual rights.

However, once the war was won, these liberties were not applied equally. Slaves, women, and Native Americans were excluded from the rights offered to the people of the new United States.

Therefore, while the cause of the American Revolution was virtuous, its outcomes were a lot more complicated, as revolutionary ideals were not equally applied to all parts of the populace in the decades after 1783.

For many people, they did not see the social and economic benefits promised by revolutionary leaders after the war was won.

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Was the american revolution a just war.

By: Eric Patterson

July 4, 2013

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Justifying Revolution: Law, Virtue, and Violence in the American War of Independence

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Aaron J. Palmer, Justifying Revolution: Law, Virtue, and Violence in the American War of Independence, Journal of American History , Volume 106, Issue 3, December 2019, Pages 739–740, https://doi.org/10.1093/jahist/jaz542

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Justifying Revolution is an important collection of essays that begins to fill a gap in the historiography of the Revolutionary War and its ideological background. Historians have thus far paid little attention to military theory's influence on the origins and course of the war. While the ideological origins of the American Revolution have received much attention, even those writings have neglected the importance of a body of thought known as just war theory. This collection (featuring prominent scholars such as Jack P. Greene, Benjamin L. Carp, and James Kirby Martin) originated in a special conference on the subject. It addresses many aspects of just war theory and how it influenced the causes, course, and conclusion of the Revolutionary War.

The collection includes thirteen essays divided into three sections corresponding to the main branches of just war theory: jus ad bellum (just entry into war), jus in bello (just conduct of war), and jus post bello (just conclusion of war). The introduction sets up an argument against a traditional view of the Revolutionary War as being more political than military and as having a predestined outcome. Rather, the United States emerged out of a “hard, bloody and destructive war with no certain outcome” (p. 3). The book's central purpose is then to explore how both sides justified such a violent conflict.

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American Revolution: Reclaiming Rights and Powers Essay

The American Revolution was the war between the British Crown and American colonies, which led to the formation of the independent United States. The American Revolution was an attempt to rewrite the norms of a daily life and to break away from monarchial system that guided both personal and political behavior. The beginning of the American Revolution can be traced back to the 1763 when the British Government began to reassert control over its American colonies. During this period, the British government was fighting to protect its colonies from its French and Native enemies.

As a result, British Government Pursued policies of the kind embodied in the proclamation of the 1763 and the Quebec act that gave Quebec the right to many Indian lands claimed by the American colonists to ensure future domestic tranquility (Sidney 54). Besides the Quebec act, The British Government also began to institute new taxes and enforce old ones in order to pay for its wartime expenses.

Many colonists opposed the new policies implemented by the British government as they felt that the British government was taking away their right and powers. This paper seeks to discuss the key rights and powers that the American believed were being taken way by the British Crown. The paper will also provide the evidences the colonist had to support their beliefs.

The key rights and powers that Americans believed were being taken away by the British government

While reasserting control over its American colonies in 1763, British government came up with various policies. Many Americans felt that these policies were taking way their rights and powers. The key rights and powers that the Americans believed were being taken away include the rights and powers to own land, and the right to pay taxes.

The right and power to own land

When the British government came up with the proclamation of 1763, many colonists felt that the British government was violating their fundamental rights. In regards to the proclamation of the 1763, the British government forbade settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains in an attempt to secure peace with powerful Native Americans neighbors. However, Colonists reacted to this policy in different ways. In their views, the proclamation of 1763 was the first of many imperial insults.

Many colonists believed that the Britsh Crown was taking away their key rights and powers to own land. As a matter of fact, when the British Crown came up with the proclamation of 1763, many eastern and western farmers were frustrated. Colonists felt that such actions cut off opportunities for land speculators and western farmers, many of whom were already coveting or squatting on these lands. From the vantage point of the colonialists, the British government seemed to be sacrificing the ambitions of the colonialist in favor of the Indians.

The colonialist, therefore, felt that the Crown was taking away their right to possess lands and giving them to Indians. As a result, colonists responded to the proclamation of 1763 and other new policies of the British crown through the written word. Sidney (89) reveals that the colonists wrote petitions, public letters, broadsides, and sermons. According to Sidney (90), the colonist sang songs, wrote poetries, and otherwise voiced their displeasures with the British crown and their growing desire of independence. The struggles over lands predated the revolution by more than a century, and they shaped the participation of white settlers and Native Americans during the war.

The Burden Taxes

Besides, the proclamation of 1763, the colonists also disputed the new tax policies that the British government implemented. When the crown implemented the new taxes, Americans took to the streets to protest them, and for more than a decade, they signed petitions to claim their liberties as loyal English citizens. For instance, the colonial response to the stamp act and sugar act demonstrated the power of the masses.

Many Bostonians took to the street in august 1765 to protest the new tax on stamps used for legal documents. The angry protestors destroyed the personal property of the stamp distributor for the colony and then hanged and beheaded him in effigy. The outrage spread throughout the colonies, as indebted colonists were now facing greater fees after they were taken to court.

Colonists were expressing their dissatisfaction with the tax policies because they felt that the stamp act and the sugar act violated the rights of levying taxes conferred by charter solely upon the state legislature. Tandem to this, the colonist had no direct representation in the British parliament, thus, they felt that it was unfair for them to be subject taxation without representation (Sidney 130).

In fact, Americans believed that the new tax policies demonstrated that the British government was not acting precipitately. Colonists saw that the government had no intentions to subvert colonial liberties but merely to raise revenue in the most expeditious and least burdensome manner possible.

Colonist’s dissatisfaction with the new tax system could also be witnessed four months later after the Boston riot. Many frustrated colonists engaged in similar public protest in all of the other colonies. Protestors from Carolina also demonstrated their opposition to the tax policy as well as their solidarity with protestors from Boston.

Small farmers and herders in the colonial backcountry similarly voiced their frustrations through various act of civil unrest. Because of the protests, many stamp distributors resigned forcing the British Crown to repeal the tax act (Goldfield, et al. 80). This protest had apparently made the Colonists intention clear. Obviously, they believed that the Crown was taking away their legal rights by implementing new tax laws.

The general warrants

Besides the burden tax, the British Crown had also issued a general warrant that allowed the British to search homes and seize property without specific search warrants. Many colonists felt that the British government was violating their personal rights. Therefore, they decided to oppose this act by demonstrating on the streets.

Tandem to this, the quartering of the British troops in personal homes, without the consent of the owners, was also a source of dislike towards the British Crown. From these three perspectives, one can justify that the American Revolution was fundamentally conservative as many colonists were fighting to protect the rights and powers they had.

Conclusively, According to Sidney (234), the dispute was waged over the nature of the British constitution and the rights of subject; the goals of the colonist were to reform the British Empire, not to withdraw from it. In fact, the colonists did not see themselves as revolutionaries; they saw themselves as English citizens who were only defending their rights to own properties. Therefore, in response to British action, the colonist established a continental congress in 1774 to organize their resistance effort and coordinate their policies towards the crown (Goldfield, et al. 89).

Works Cited

Goldfield, David, et al . American Journey: A History of The United States. 2nd Ed. Vol. 2 Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Publishers, 2011. Print.

Sidney, Barclay. American Revolution . Charleston, SC: BiblioLife Publishers, 2009. Print.

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To this day historians actively debate the character of the American Revolution. Was it radical or conservative? Were the revolutionaries egalitarian or greedy? Did the revolution do more to expand rights or curtail them? In this structured academic controversy (SAC), students work in teams to read primary sources to answer the question: Was the American Revolution virtuous?

Image: An engraving of the Declaration of Independence by John Binns, 1818. From the Library of Congress .

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The Daily Utah Chronicle

Cushman: The Revolutionary War Was Not Justified

A 1789 engraving of the Boston Tea Party (Courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

By KC Ellen Cushman , Opinion Writer December 7, 2019

The American Revolution is widely celebrated in the United States during the Fourth of July. The holiday is dedicated to celebrating independence from Great Britain and remains a major symbol of patriotism and pride. The admiration of the Founding Fathers, the Constitution and the Revolutionary War itself was rooted in early American history. However, it may also be possible that the American Revolution was an unjustified revolt against a faraway government that nonetheless fulfilled its end of the social contract and provided protection for its citizens.

Fulfilling Its End of the Social Contract

Thomas Hobbes was an early proponent of contractarianism, and believed that people could only overthrow their government when it was not adequately defending them or when their ruler was too weak. Much better known for his contractarian beliefs is John Locke, who believed citizens were obligated to overthrow their government if it was not protecting their rights to life, liberty and property. Social contract theory was the primary justification that revolutionary leaders used to justify their insurgency against the British, but the British crown was not leaving any of its contractual obligations (under Hobbes’s or Locke’s contractarian philosophy) unfulfilled, meaning the rebellion could not be justified.

In 1756, Great Britain went up against France in the Seven Years War, the first war to span the globe. While the fight on the European continent was called the Seven Years War, Americans referred to it as the French and Indian War, as they fought to protect colonial territory from the French and their Native American allies. This war actually lasted seven years, finally ending in 1763 with the Treaty of Paris.

For seven years, Britain fought for colonial territory, accruing debt to defend the interests of their colonies. Part of the post-war peace (and the seeds of tension between the colonies and Great Britain) was the Proclamation of 1763, which forbade all Western expansion into Native American lands past the Appalachian Mountains. What colonists saw as a burden on their freedom was an effort to maintain peace on their continent by a government with an obligation to protect its citizens. With the Seven Years War and the Proclamation of 1763, Great Britain made a clear effort to protect the rights of the colonists and asked for very little in return other than taxes to help pay the cost of that protection.

Colonial Failure to Maintain the Contract

On the other hand, colonists repeatedly broke their end of the contract. Most of the anger toward the British crown resulted from a series of taxes passed after the Seven Years War in part to help pay for the debt Great Britain had earned protecting the colonies and their interests. In 1764, Great Britain passed the Sugar Act, followed by the Stamp Act the next year. In response to colonial “ taxation without representation” outrage and widespread boycotts of taxed products, Great Britain tried to reestablish their dominance over the colonies with the Townshend Acts in 1767. Following this, the colonies engaged in more serious acts of rebellion with the Boston Massacre in 1770 and the Boston Tea Party in 1773.

From March to June of 1774, Great Britain once again tried to assert their dominance over their colonies with what the colonies coined as the “Intolerable Acts,” a series of laws meant to keep citizens who would not peaceably fulfill the responsibilities of citizenship in check. September of that year, the Revolution truly began with the convention of the First Continental Congress, and in 1775, the first shots were fired at Lexington and Concord.

While the British had repeatedly shown its commitment to protecting its citizens, those very same citizens not only refused to help pay for this protection but demanded independence without cause after payment was requested. Their demands for representation, if grounds for revolution, would have meant that the majority of European-British citizens had cause for revolt, as Great Britain at that point in history was a monarchy with a parliamentary system that only granted representation to its lords. The American colonies were even granted some representation through their ambassadors to Great Britain, men like Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.

At nearly every occasion, American colonists tried to neglect their end of the social contract with Great Britain and rationalized their actions and their revolution by accusing their government of doing just that. At every opportunity, Great Britain tried to ensure peace for its colonists, to protect their property and provide representation through entertainment of colonial ambassadors. Americans refused to help pay for a debt they were partly responsible for, undermined their government at every turn and revolted (making an ally out of France, a centuries-old enemy of the British, in the process). Ultimately, the American Revolution is not so clearly justified, as the demands of the colonists were outlandish and the British government treated the colonies with fairness in their governing.

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Mike Hawk • Nov 13, 2023 at 3:41 pm

this is pretty silly

Dawn • Jun 12, 2022 at 1:41 pm

I am studying this topic right now in my university class at the University of Phoenix. I am reading primary documents. If one reads the primary documents, one understands that only the American colonies were being required to repay Britain’s war debts. Further, the Seven Year’s War, which began in the colonies but spread worldwide, was fought by the British to take advantage of American resources–colonialism at its finest. The colonists had so many grievances, but here are a couple that stand out to me in Thomas Jefferson’s letter to the King entitled Thomas Jefferson Asserts American Rights, 1774:

“…That these acts prohibit us from carrying in quest of other purchasers the surplus of our tobaccoes…so that we must leave them with the British merchant for whatever he will please to allow us, to be by him reshipped to foreign markets, where he will reap the benefits of making sale of them for full value” (Jefferson, 1774/2014, pp. 123–128). So Britain was restricting free trade and stealing the profits.

“…an American subject is forbidden to make a hat for himself of the fur which he has taken perhaps on his own soil…” (Jefferson, 1774/2014, pp. 123–128). Americans goods and profits were being taken by Britain and they could not even provide for themselves from their own labors. In essence, the colonists were being treated as slaves to pay off Britain’s debt.

Worse, the entire city of Boston was punished for the actions of a few in the Boston Tea Party. All families living in Boston were deprived of their means of making a living. They became destitute.

“On the partial representations of a few worthless ministerial dependents…without asking proof, without attempting a distinction between the guilty and the innocent, who whole of that ancient and wealthy town is in a moment reduced from opulence to beggary” (Jefferson, 1774/2014, p. 126).

Colonists lost many of their inherited rights as British citizens including a trial by their peers. Also, Britain had a standing army in the colonies during peacetime. How would that make you feel today?

Read the primary documents, especially the Declaration of Independence. Actually study the topic and then you will understand…

MaLaBaMi • Oct 5, 2021 at 3:06 pm

For those of you having what kind of looks like a hissy-fit on here debating politics like a couple of 4 year olds fighting over a toy that they both want, (instead of acting mature and just dropping it…) Remember that for someone like me, in middle school, assigned a Civics paper telling us we need to argue for the side of the British, and why the American Colonies were unjustified in leaving Great Britain, this information is quite helpful for us….just you know, keep that in mind

Steve Robert Jackson • Sep 28, 2021 at 11:00 am

i find the whole “Revolution” thing a vast exaggeration by the founding fathers, to cement a degree of patriotic mythology on which to build the Republic. A storyline to which future generations will look back with a great deal of pride and jingoism. This was astute statecraft with sound foresight, particularly for a federal system which would come to value and rely on a unifying original story.

The reality is that the war was not a revolution, not even close to a revolution. Some historians often like to position it as a parallel revolution to the French Revolution. Some of the same great minds were active in the sphere of both events but the two bear little resemblance to eachother.

The fight for American freedom involved some violent battles but was not the extreme, perverse and often pernicious overthrow of the entire political, cultural & social order that took place in France and for many years after.

In its purest form a revolution as experienced in France, Russia, China etc , results in the complete overthrow of the political institutions and systems from within and the establishment of a completely new order to replace it.

The American war of independence resulted in the creation of a new independent and sovereign nation, with a system that far from overthrowing, borrowed many facets of the British established order, with the exception of the monarchy. Although the early blueprint was simply an alternative form of demagoguery with a lifetime president appointed by the political elite rather than the electorat. Not too far removed from the Aristocratic nature of the British heirarchy. The concept of a freely elected president coming much later.

They also adopted the Westminster bicameral parliamentary system of legislature, and the English common law legal system .

The written constitution was a free think, in order to enshrine the basic rights of the citizen, but this too was put essentially together on the framework of both the medieval English principles of Magna Carta and the 1689 English Bill of Rights.

The most radical and novel things to come out of the independence movement were the separation of powers and the devolution of powers to states within the new federation but neither of these can be described as revolutionary changes.

So the resulting product did not quite reflect the emergence of a radical, revolutionary “phoenix from the fire ” narrative which the founding fathers sought to portray.

As for the British themselves and most Europeans at the time and througout the 19th & 20th century never referred to it as a revolution but simply the “loss of the British colonies in America” later to be defined as the “American War of Independence”.

Josh • Nov 6, 2023 at 9:50 pm

Please never speak again. This assessment is the most embarrassing thing I’ve ever read. I might even show it to an actual historian to get a laugh.

Nobody • Jun 14, 2021 at 12:52 pm

“Democrats re way smarter than you racist, pro-life republican. Learn some respect. Love is love, science is real, black lives matter, Biden 2020.”

The level of projection in this comment is remarkable.

Miles Standish • Apr 16, 2021 at 7:18 am

‘Tyranny’? I just can’t see it, where on earth was ‘British “tyranny“? The Brits did everything they could to defend our country, they bankrupted their Exchequer and impoverished the people in defence of the US. Colonial British Americans or English Americans had the highest standard of living in the world more even than the British in the UK! Yet, the moment they asked us to pay a small tax to help re-supply and pay the wages of the troops defending the US it was called “tyranny“ and a cause for rebellion. In closing , when you look at all the other British colonies, particularly the English-speaking colonies, they all gained their independence once they were economically and militarily independent with a functional democratic government. Therefore, there can be no doubt, America would’ve also gained its independence if it had waited like Canada, Australia and New Zealand for a few more years. When I look around at what is going on in America I sometimes wonder if we shouldn’t have just waited, why? Isn’t it obvious? Canada, Australia and New Zealand are all stable, healthy democracies with none of the problems that we seem to have……

Michael Ben David • Feb 19, 2021 at 12:02 pm

Cmon with the rudeness. You can have an opinion that is different than someones and not be mean or rude about it. I’m looking at you DT.

The most important fact to counter this article though is the Proclamation of 1763. The British only protected the interest of the motherland in removing the French from the Ohio River Valley. The colonists who fought the war were banned from settling there in order to form an Indian State. Obviously the colonists did not take kindly to that and proceeded to settle there anyway, which created lots of issues for many parties.

For the record, I don’t subscribe to the fact that England’s tyrannical rule was the sole reason for declaring independence. There were several factors, some just some not. Whether or not England was genuinely tyrannical is up for debate. What is true is that many colonists had legitimate reason to dislike the policies imposed on them from across the ocean.

Historical empathy does not equate political sympathy.

Joey Smith • Feb 12, 2021 at 12:48 pm

Stop turning this into a political battleground y’all. Both sides could easily be argued. Apple Pie

BIG BRAIN • Dec 1, 2020 at 11:55 am

Professional baller • Oct 4, 2023 at 9:07 am

pp poo poo haha

Wesly Alfred • Oct 9, 2020 at 10:01 am

DT on December 8th, 2019 12:37 am, what do you mean “I guarantee she is a Democrat”? Democrats re way smarter than you racist, pro-life republican. Learn some respect. Love is love, science is real, black lives matter, Biden 2020.

Cap Caputo • Dec 24, 2019 at 1:49 pm

I can see her points. After all, the colonists had Samuel Adams and James Otis, two hot heads who only wanted a revolution, instigating and agitating things in New England. However, her arguments make me believe she is a Tory. Enjoyable reading but I disagree with her; the colonists had justifiable causes. Could have independence been granted by England peacefully? I doubt it. Once the King and Lord North dug in their heels and refused to loosen the acts, it didn’t take much for Adams and Otis to flame the fires of revolution a little more. When the march towards Lexington and Concord commenced, there was no avoiding the inevitable result.

DT • Dec 8, 2019 at 12:37 am

This chick’s marxist professors have done an admirable job at removing her brain. This is another veiled attempt at historical revisionism. I guarantee she’s a democrat.

Mike Hawk • Nov 13, 2023 at 3:43 pm

Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed.

GE Seneff • Dec 8, 2019 at 12:36 am

Nice attempt at rationalizing tyranny. Anyone who truly studies the era will recognize the numerous violations of Britain’s own constitution. “Taxation without representation,” was only one of 21 causes of the revolt as listed in the Declaration of Independence. If you don’t mind the forced housing of government troops in your house and confiscation of personal property, for example, then I can see why you think the colonists had no basis for their grievances.

The American Revolution

The origins of the american revolution.

The American Revolution had both long-term origins and short-term causes. In this section, we will look broadly at some of the long-term political, intellectual, cultural, and economic developments in eighteenth century that set the context for the crisis of the 1760s and 1770s.

Britain failed to define the colonies’ relationship to the empire and institute a coherent program of imperial reform. Two factors contributed to these failures. First, Britain was engaged in costly wars from the War of the Spanish Succession at the start of the century through the Seven Years’ War in 1763. Constant war was politically and economically expensive. Second, competing visions of empire divided British officials. Old Whigs and their Tory supporters envisioned an authoritarian empire, based on conquering territory and extracting resources. They sought to eliminate the national debt by raising taxes and cutting spending on the colonies. The radical (or Patriot) Whigs’ based their imperial vision on trade and manufacturing instead of land and resources. They argued that economic growth, not raising taxes, would solve the national debt. Instead of an authoritarian empire, “patriot Whigs” argued that the colonies should have an equal status with that of the mother country. The debate between the two sides raged throughout the eighteenth century, and the lack of consensus prevented coherent reform.

The colonies developed their own notions of their place in the empire. They saw themselves as British subjects “entitled to all the natural, essential, inherent, and inseparable rights of our fellow subjects in Great-Britain.” Throughout the first half of the eighteenth century, the colonies had experienced significant economic and demographic growth. Their success, they believed, was partly a result of Britain’s hands-off approach to the colonies. That success had made them increasingly important to the economy of the mother country and the empire as a whole. By mid-century, colonists believed that they held a special place in the empire, which justified Britain’s hands-off policy. In 1764, James Otis Jr. wrote, “The colonists are entitled to as ample rights, liberties, and privileges as the subjects of the mother country are, and in some respects to more .”

In this same period, the colonies developed their own local political institutions. Samuel Adams, in the Boston Gazette , described the colonies as each being a “separate body politic” from Britain. Almost immediately upon each colony’s settlement, they created a colonial assembly. These assemblies assumed many of the same duties as the Commons exercised in Britain, including taxing residents, managing the spending of the colonies’ revenue, and granting salaries to royal officials. In the early 1700s, elite colonial leaders lobbied unsuccessfully to get the Ministry to recognize their assemblies’ legal standing but the Ministry was too occupied with European wars. In the first half of the eighteenth century, royal governors tasked by the Board of Trade made attempts to limit the power of the assemblies, but they were largely unsuccessful. The assemblies’ power only grew. Many colonists came to see the assemblies as having the same jurisdiction over them that Parliament exercised over those in England. They interpreted British inaction as justifying their tradition of local governance. The British Ministry and Parliament, however, saw the issue as deferred until the Ministry chose to directly address the proper role of the assemblies. Conflict was inevitable, but a revolution was not.

Colonial political culture in the colonies also developed differently than that of the mother country. In both Britain and the colonies, land was the key to political participation, but because land was more easily obtained in the colonies, a higher portion of colonists participated in politics. Colonial political culture drew inspiration from the “country” party in Britain. These ideas—generally referred to as the ideology of republicanism—stressed the corrupting nature of power on the individual, the need for those involved in self-governing to be virtuous (i.e., putting the “public good” over their own self-interest) and to be ever vigilant against the rise of conspiracies, centralized control, and tyranny. Only a small fringe in Britain held these ideas, but in the colonies, they were widely accepted.

In the 1740s, two seemingly conflicting bodies of thought—the Enlightenment and the Great Awakening—began to combine in the colonies and challenge older ideas about authority. Perhaps no single philosopher had a greater impact on colonial thinking than John Locke. In his Essay Concerning Human Understanding , Locke argued that the mind was originally a tabula rasa (or blank slate) and that individuals were formed primarily by their environment. The aristocracy then were wealthy or successful because they had greater access to wealth, education, and patronage and not because they were innately superior. Locke followed this essay with Some Thoughts Concerning Education , which introduced radical new ideas about the importance of education. Education would produce rational human beings capable of thinking for themselves and questioning authority rather than tacitly accepting tradition. These ideas slowly came to have far-reaching effects in the colonies.

At the same time as Locke’s ideas about knowledge and education spread in North America, the colonies also experienced an unprecedented wave of evangelical Protestant revivalism. In 1739-40, the Rev. George Whitefield, an enigmatic, itinerant preacher, traveled the colonies preaching Calvinist sermons to huge crowds. Unlike the rationalism of Locke, his sermons were designed to appeal to his listeners’ emotions. Whitefield told his listeners that salvation could only be found by taking personal responsibility for one’s own unmediated relationship with God, a process which came to be known as a “conversion” experience. He also argued that the current Church hierarchies populated by “unconverted” ministers only stood as a barrier between the individual and God. In his wake, new itinerant preachers picked up his message and many congregations split. Both Locke and Whitefield had the effect of empowering individuals to question authority and to take their lives into their own hands.

Despite these political and intellectual differences, eighteenth-century colonists were in some ways becoming more culturally similar to Britons, a process often referred to as “Anglicization.” As the colonial economies grew, they quickly became an important market destination for British manufacturing exports. Colonists with disposable income and access to British markets attempted to mimic British culture. By the middle of the eighteenth century, middling-class colonists could also afford items previously thought of as luxuries like British fashions, dining wares, and more. The desire to purchase British goods meshed with the desire to enjoy British liberties.

These political, intellectual, cultural, and economic developments created fundamental differences between the colonies and the mother country. Together, they combined to create latent tensions that would rise to the surface when, after the Seven Years’ War, Britain finally began to implement a program of imperial reform that conflicted with colonists’ understanding of the empire and their place in it.

• American Yawp. Located at : http://www.americanyawp.com/index.html . Project : American Yawp. License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike

• Civic Virtue and America’s Cincinnatus, George Washington
• Master Teacher Lesson Plans
• Lesson Plans on the Revolutionary Republic by Master Teachers

Cynthia Burgett, Rachel Carson Middle School, Herndon, Virginia

DESIGN LEVEL: Middle School-High School

In creating our Constitution, the founders believed civic virtue would be essential to ensure the success of our new republic. This lesson plan explores the historic foundations of civic virtue in the United States by closely examining the role George Washington played as a role model of civic virtue. The goal is for students to realize that civic virtue remains a necessity if a lasting republic to succeed. Additionally, this lesson can be used as a precursor to a service learning project.

Students will:

• Analyze the role of George Washington in setting the standard of civic virtue for a national leader.
• Identify the role of civic virtue in our Constitution.
• Identify and recognize current examples of civic virtue.
• Collaborate to develop a community project that demonstrates civic virtue.
• Eighteenth-Century Images of Cincinnatus , American Revolution Institute webpage.
• Saul Cornell, “Civic Virtue Means Citizen Obligations,” August 9, 2013, in Civic Virtue in Early America, produced by The Society of the Cincinnati, YouTube video, 6:01.
• “The Incomparable Malala Yousafzai,” September 19, 2015, The Ellen Show, YouTube video, 8:09.
• Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789, Friday June 16, 1775, 92.
• George Washington, Letter to Martha Washington, Philadelphia, PA, June 18, 1775.
• Continental Congress to George Washington, Commission as Commander in Chief, Philadelphia, PA, June 19, 1775.
• Saul Cornell, “Newburgh Conspiracy and Civic Virtue,” August 9, 2013, in Civic Virtue in Early America, produced by The Society of the Cincinnati, YouTube video, 5:15.
• Continental Army orderly book kept by Capt. Ebenezer Smith of the 2nd Massachusetts Regiment, March-November 1783 at Newburgh and West Point, N.Y., pages 37-54, The Society of the Cincinnati.
• Library of Congress. “The American Revolution, 1763-1783.” Accessed January 11, 2018.
• George Washington, Circular Letter to the States, Newburgh, New York, June 8-20, 1783.
• United States Constitution, 1787.
• Saul Cornell, “Washington as the Modern Cincinnatus” August 9, 2013, in Civic Virtue and Early America, produced by The Society of the Cincinnati, YouTube video, 4:08.
• Sketch for the Society of the Cincinnati medal, Pierre-Charles L’Enfant, June 1783, The Society of the Cincinnati.
• First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his country : to the honorable the Society of the Cincinnati : this monument of Genl. George Washington is very respectfully inscribed by the artist , John Eckstein, ca. 1806, The Society of the Cincinnati.
• George Washington mantel clock, Jean-Baptiste DuBuc, Paris ca. 1800-1810, Gift of David Gordon Sutton, Frank Taylor Sutton III, and Frank Taylor Sutton IV, 2001, The Society of the Cincinnati.
• Commemorative jug depicting the marquis de Lafayette and George Washington, Richard Hall & Son, ca. 1824, Gift of the Friends of the Boush-Tazewell House, Inc., 1991, The Society of the Cincinnati.
• George Washington statue cast from the original marble Jean-Antoine Houdon 1785 commission for the Virginia general assembly, Paul King Foundry, Johnston, RI under the direction of sculptor Robert Shure of Skylight Studios, Woburn, MA, 2008, The Society of the Cincinnati.

Recommended Time 

Two 45-60 minute class periods (not including post-lesson service project).

Have students read “Eighteenth-century Depictions of Cincinnatus.”

Show students the video segment “Civic Virtue Means Citizen Obligations.”

Show students the video clip of Malala Yousafzai’s interview.

Explore the meaning of civic virtue as a class, and discuss why Malala is described as having civic virtue. Emphasize that civic virtue involves action not just thought.

Have students rotate through four of the eight stations to analyze a series of primary and secondary sources. Ask students to think about and answer the questions below for each source.

• When was this source created?
• What is the purpose of this source?
• Who is the audience for this source?
• How does this source relate to the idea of civic virtue?
• Why is this source important today?

At each table share opinions about the sources before moving to the next station. After all stations have been completed, conduct a whole class debrief on these resources.

STATION 1—George Washington’s response to his appointment to become commander-in-chief from Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789, Friday June 16, 1775, page 92.

STATION 2—George Washington, Letter to Martha Washington, Philadelphia, PA, June 18, 1775.

STATION 3—Continental Congress to George Washington, Commission as Commander in Chief, Philadelphia, PA, June 19, 1775.

STATION 4—”Newburgh Conspiracy and Civic Virtue” video segment, and Continental Army orderly book (transcription at Library of Congress. “The American Revolution, 1763-1783.”), pages 37-54.

Show students the video segment “Washington as the Modern Cincinnatus.”

Have students rotate through the remaining four of the eight stations (those they did not visit on Day 1) to analyze a series of primary sources. Ask students to think about and answer the questions below for each source.

STATION 5—George Washington, Circular Letter to the States, Newburgh, New York, June 8-20, 1783, pages 7-12 and 22-23.

STATION 6—United States Constitution (emphasis on Article II – Sections 1, 2 & 3).

STATION 8—Rather than answering questions, brainstorm service learning projects to be conducted either in small groups or as a whole class.

Assessment 

Compose a reflective essay for homework to synthesize the role civic virtue has contributed to the continued success of the American experiment in republican democracy, citing examples from notes taken from each of the eight stations as well as a “current events” example of a present-day citizen who demonstrates civic virtue.

As a class decide on a service learning project to be conducted either as a class, in small groups or individually in the community.

Standards Addressed

COMMON CORE: English Language Arts Standards — History/Social Studies — Grade 6-8 Historical Analysis and Skills Development: Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening; Writing: Key Ideas and Details; Craft and Structure: Integration of Knowledge and Ideas

HISTORY AND SOCIAL SCIENCE STANDARDS OF LEARNING FOR VIRGINIA PUBLIC SCHOOLS—March 2015 Civics and Economics CE.1 The student will demonstrate skills for historical thinking, geographical analysis, economic decision making, and responsible citizenship by a) analyzing evidence from primary and secondary sources; e) constructing informed, evidence-based arguments from multiple sources; i) applying civic virtue and democratic principles to make collaborative decisions (examples include voting, volunteering, organizing a community group, attending a city or school board meeting); j) defending conclusions orally and in writing to a wide range of audiences, using evidence from sources.

Civic Virtue in Early America, Part 1 of 7: "Civic Virtue Means Citizen Obligations"

Saul cornell professor of history, fordham university.

Civic Virtue in Early America, Part 6 of 7: "Newburgh Conspiracy and Civic Virtue"

Continental Army orderly book kept by Capt. Ebenezer Smith of the 2nd Massachusetts Regiment

The Society of the Cincinnati, The Robert Charles Lawrence Fergusson Collection

A circular letter, from His Excellency George Washington, commander in chief of the armies of the United States of America : addressed to the governors of the several states, on his resigning the command of the army, and retiring from public business

George washington.

Civic Virtue in Early America, Part 3 of 7: "Washington as Modern Cincinnatus"

Sketch for the Society of the Cincinnati medal

Pierre-charles l’enfant.

The Society of the Cincinnati Archives

First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his country : to the honorable the Society of the Cincinnati : this monument of Genl. George Washington is very respectfully inscribed by the artist

John eckstein.

The Society of the Cincinnati

George Washington mantel clock

Jean-baptiste dubuc, paris.

The Society of the Cincinnati, Gift of David Gordon Sutton, Frank Taylor Sutton III, and Frank Taylor Sutton IV, 2001

Jug commemorating the marquis de Lafayette's tour Richard Hall & Son, Staffordshire, England

The Society of the Cincinnati, gift of the Friends of the Boush-Tazewell House, Inc., 1991

cast from the original marble Jean-Antoine Houdon 1785 commission for the Virginia general assembly by Paul King Foundry, Johnston, RI under the direction of sculptor Robert Shure of Skylight Studios, Woburn, MA

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3 reasons the American Revolution was a mistake

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This July 4, let's not mince words: American independence in 1776 was a monumental mistake. We should be mourning the fact that we left the United Kingdom, not cheering it.

Of course, evaluating the wisdom of the American Revolution means dealing with counterfactuals. As any historian would tell you, this is a messy business. We obviously can't be entirely sure how America would have fared if it had stayed in the British Empire longer, perhaps gaining independence a century or so later, along with Canada.

But I'm reasonably confident a world in which the revolution never happened would be better than the one we live in now, for three main reasons: Slavery would've been abolished earlier, American Indians would've faced rampant persecution but not the outright ethnic cleansing Andrew Jackson and other American leaders perpetrated, and America would have a parliamentary system of government that makes policymaking easier and lessens the risk of democratic collapse.

Abolition would have come faster without independence

The main reason the revolution was a mistake is that the British Empire, in all likelihood, would have abolished slavery earlier than the US did, and with less bloodshed.

Abolition in most of the British Empire occurred in 1834, following the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act . That left out India, but slavery was banned there, too, in 1843 . In England itself, slavery was illegal at least going back to 1772 . That's decades earlier than the United States.

This alone is enough to make the case against the revolution. Decades less slavery is a massive humanitarian gain that almost certainly dominates whatever gains came to the colonists from independence.

The main benefit of the revolution to colonists was that it gave more political power to America's white male minority. For the vast majority of the country — its women, slaves, American Indians — the difference between disenfranchisement in an independent America and disenfranchisement in a British-controlled colonial America was negligible. If anything, the latter would've been preferable, since at least women and minorities wouldn't be singled out for disenfranchisement. From the vantage point of most of the country, who cares if white men had to suffer through what everyone else did for a while longer, especially if them doing so meant slaves gained decades of free life?

It's true that had the US stayed, Britain would have had much more to gain from the continuance of slavery than it did without America. It controlled a number of dependencies with slave economies — notably Jamaica and other islands in the West Indies — but nothing on the scale of the American South. Adding that into the mix would've made abolition significantly more costly.

But the South's political influence within the British Empire would have been vastly smaller than its influence in the early American republic. For one thing, the South, like all other British dependencies, lacked representation in Parliament. The Southern states were colonies, and their interests were discounted by the British government accordingly. But the South was also simply smaller as a chunk of the British Empire's economy at the time than it was as a portion of America's. The British crown had less to lose from the abolition of slavery than white elites in an independent America did.

The revolutionaries understood this. Indeed, a desire to preserve slavery helped fuel Southern support for the war. In 1775, after the war had begun in Massachusetts, the Earl of Dunmore, then governor of Virginia, offered the slaves of rebels freedom if they came and fought for the British cause. Eric Herschthal , a PhD student in history at Columbia, notes that the proclamation united white Virginians behind the rebel effort. He quotes Philip Fithian, who was traveling through Virginia when the proclamation was made, saying, "The Inhabitants of this Colony are deeply alarmed at this infernal Scheme. It seems to quicken all in Revolution to overpower him at any Risk." Anger at Dunmore's emancipation ran so deep that Thomas Jefferson included it as a grievance in a draft of the Declaration of Independence. That's right: the declaration could've included "they're conscripting our slaves" as a reason for independence.

For white slaveholders in the South, Simon Schama writes in Rough Crossings , his history of black loyalism during the Revolution, the war was "a revolution, first and foremost, mobilized to protect slavery."

Slaves also understood that their odds of liberation were better under British rule than independence. Over the course of the war, about 100,000 African slaves escaped, died, or were killed, and tens of thousands enlisted in the British army, far more than joined the rebels. "Black Americans' quest for liberty was mostly tied to fighting for the British — the side in the War for Independence that offered them freedom," historian Gary Nash writes in The Forgotten Fifth , his history of African Americans in the revolution. At the end of the war, thousands who helped the British were evacuated to freedom in Nova Scotia, Jamaica, and England.

This is not to say the British were motivated by a desire to help slaves; of course they weren't. But American slaves chose a side in the revolution, the side of the crown. They were no fools. They knew that independence meant more power for the plantation class that had enslaved them and that a British victory offered far greater prospects for freedom.

Independence was bad for Native Americans

Starting with the Proclamation of 1763, the British colonial government placed firm limits on westward settlement in the United States. It wasn't motivated by an altruistic desire to keep American Indians from being subjugated or anything; it just wanted to avoid border conflicts.

But all the same, the policy enraged American settlers, who were appalled that the British would seem to side with Indians over white men. "The British government remained willing to conceive of Native Americans as subjects of the crown, similar to colonists," Ethan Schmidt writes in Native Americans in the American Revolution . "American colonists … refused to see Indians as fellow subjects. Instead, they viewed them as obstacles in the way of their dreams of land ownership and trading wealth." This view is reflected in the Declaration of Independence, which attacks King George III for backing "merciless Indian Savages."

American independence made the proclamation void here. It's not void in Canada — indeed, there the 1763 proclamation is viewed as a fundamental document providing rights to self-government to First Nations tribes. It's mentioned explicitly in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (Canada's Bill of Rights), which protects "any rights or freedoms that have been recognized by the Royal Proclamation of October 7, 1763" for all aboriginal people. Historian Colin Calloway writes in The Scratch of a Pen: 1763 and the Transformation of North America that the proclamation "still forms the basis for dealings between Canada's government and Canada's First Nations."

And, unsurprisingly, Canada didn't see Indian wars and removals as large and sweeping as occurred in the US . They still committed horrible, indefensible crimes. Canada, under British rule and after, brutally mistreated aboriginal people, not least through government-inflicted famines and the state's horrific seizure of children from their families so they could attend residential schools. But the country didn't experience a westward expansion as violent and deadly as that pursued by the US government and settlers. Absent the revolution, Britain probably would've moved into Indian lands. But fewer people would have died.

None of this is to minimize the extent of British and Canadian crimes against Natives. "It's a hard case to make because even though I do think Canada's treatment of Natives was better than the United States, it was still terrible," the Canadian essayist Jeet Heer tells me in an email (Heer has also written a great case against American independence ). "On the plus side for Canada: there were no outright genocides like the Trail of Tears (aside from the Beothuks of Newfoundland). The population statistics are telling: 1.4 million people of aboriginal descent in Canada as against 5.2 million in the USA. Given the fact that America is far more hospitable as an environment and has 10 times the non-aboriginal population, that's telling."

Independence also enabled acquisition of territory in the West through the Louisiana Purchase and the Mexican-American War. That ensured that America's particularly rapacious brand of colonialism ensnared yet more native peoples. And while Mexico and France were no angels, what America brought was worse. Before the war, the Apache and Comanche were in frequent violent conflict with the Mexican government. But they were Mexican citizens. The US refused to make them American citizens for a century. And then, of course, it violently forced them into reservations, killing many in the process.

American Indians would have still, in all likelihood, faced violence and oppression absent American independence, just as First Nations people in Canada did. But American-scale ethnic cleansing wouldn't have occurred. And like America's slaves, American Indians knew this. Most tribes sided with the British or stayed neutral; only a small minority backed the rebels. Generally speaking, when a cause is opposed by the two most vulnerable groups in a society, it's probably a bad idea. So it is with the cause of American independence.

America would have a better system of government if we'd stuck with Britain

Honestly, I think earlier abolition alone is enough to make the case against the revolution, and it combined with less-horrible treatment of American Indians is more than enough. But it's worth taking a second to praise a less important but still significant consequence of the US sticking with Britain: we would've, in all likelihood, become a parliamentary democracy rather than a presidential one.

And parliamentary democracies are a lot, lot better than presidential ones. They're significantly less likely to collapse into dictatorship because they don't lead to irresolvable conflicts between, say, the president and the legislature. They lead to much less gridlock.

In the US, activists wanting to put a price on carbon emissions spent years trying to put together a coalition to make it happen, mobilizing sympathetic businesses and philanthropists and attempting to make bipartisan coalition — and they still failed to pass cap and trade, after millions of dollars and man hours. In the UK, the Conservative government decided it wanted a carbon tax. So there was a carbon tax , and the coal sector has taken a beating . Just like that. Passing big, necessary legislation — in this case, legislation that's literally necessary to save the planet — is a whole lot easier with parliaments than with presidential systems.

There are of course exceptions — you need only look at Theresa May’s years of struggle to put together a Brexit package that satisfies her party. But it’s notable that that fiasco began with a deviation from parliamentary government, when David Cameron decided to punt the question of leaving the European Union to the voters. It was the introduction of another unnecessary decisionmaking entity, very common in the veto point-heavy US system, that created the crisis in the first place.

This is no trivial matter. Efficient passage of legislation has huge humanitarian consequences. It makes measures of planetary importance, like carbon taxes, easier to get through; they still face political pushback, of course — Australia's tax got repealed, after all — but they can be enacted in the first place, which is far harder in the US system. And the efficiency of parliamentary systems enables larger social welfare programs that reduce inequality and improve life for poor citizens. Government spending in parliamentary countries is about 5 percent of GDP higher , after controlling for other factors, than in presidential countries. If you believe in redistribution, that's very good news indeed.

The Westminister system of parliamentary democracy also benefits from weaker upper houses. The US is saddled with a Senate that gives Wyoming the same power as California, which has more than 66 times as many people. Worse, the Senate is equal in power to the lower, more representative house. Most countries following the British system have upper houses — only New Zealand was wise enough to abolish it — but they're far, far weaker than their lower houses. The Canadian Senate and the House of Lords affect legislation only in rare cases. At most, they can hold things up a bit or force minor tweaks. They aren't capable of obstruction anywhere near the level of the US Senate.

Finally, we'd still likely be a monarchy, under the rule of Elizabeth II, and constitutional monarchy is the best system of government known to man. Generally speaking, in a parliamentary system, you need a head of state who is not the prime minister to serve as a disinterested arbiter when there are disputes about how to form a government — say, if the largest party should be allowed to form a minority government or if smaller parties should be allowed to form a coalition, to name a recent example from Canada . That head of state is usually a figurehead president elected by the parliament (Germany, Italy) or the people (Ireland, Finland), or a monarch. And monarchs are better .

Monarchs are more effective than presidents precisely because they lack any semblance of legitimacy. It would be offensive for Queen Elizabeth or her representatives in Canada, New Zealand, etc. to meddle in domestic politics. Indeed, when the governor-general of Australia did so in 1975 it set off a constitutional crisis that made it clear such behavior would not be tolerated. But figurehead presidents have some degree of democratic legitimacy and are typically former politicians. That enables a greater rate of shenanigans — like when Italian President Giorgio Napolitano schemed, successfully, to remove Silvio Berlusconi as prime minister due at least in part to German Chancellor Angela Merkel's entreaties to do so.

Napolitano is the rule, rather than the exception. Oxford political scientists Petra Schleiter and Edward Morgan-Jones have found that presidents, whether elected indirectly by parliament or directly by the people, are likelier to allow governments to change without new elections than monarchs are. In other words, they're likelier to change the government without any democratic input at all. Monarchy is, perhaps paradoxically, the more democratic option.

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How Did The War Between Britain and America Benefit Others

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22 March 1765 – 14 January 1784

Thirteen Colonies (United States)

Dutch Republic, France, Loyalist, Spain, United Kingdom, United States, American colonies

The Boston Tea Party (1773), The Battles of Lexington and Concord (1775), The Declaration of Independence (1776), The Battle of Saratoga (1777), The Siege of Yorktown (1781)

George Washington: As the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George Washington emerged as a central figure in the revolution. His strategic brilliance, perseverance, and moral character helped inspire and lead the troops through challenging times, ultimately leading to victory. Thomas Jefferson: Known for his eloquence and intellect, Thomas Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. His ideas and ideals, including the belief in natural rights and self-governance, greatly influenced the revolutionary cause. Benjamin Franklin: A polymath and influential statesman, Benjamin Franklin played a vital role in rallying support for the revolution. He traveled to Europe as a diplomat, securing crucial aid from France and other countries, and his scientific discoveries further enhanced his reputation. John Adams: A passionate advocate for independence, John Adams was instrumental in driving the revolutionary movement forward. He served as a diplomat, including as a representative to France and as the second President of the United States, and his contributions to shaping the nation were significant. Abigail Adams: Abigail Adams, wife of John Adams, was an influential figure in her own right. Her letters to her husband and other prominent figures provided valuable insights and perspectives on the revolution, and she became an early advocate for women's rights and equality.

In the 18th century, the thirteen American colonies were under British rule. Over time, tensions began to rise as the colonists developed a distinct identity and desired greater autonomy. Several key factors contributed to the buildup of resentment and ultimately led to the revolution. One crucial prerequisite was the concept of colonial self-government. The colonists enjoyed a degree of self-rule, which allowed them to develop their own institutions and local governments. However, as British policies, such as the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts, imposed new taxes and regulations on the colonies, the sense of self-government and individual liberties were threatened. Another significant factor was the Enlightenment era, which spread ideas of natural rights, individual freedoms, and representative government. Influential thinkers like John Locke and Thomas Paine advocated for the rights of the people and challenged the legitimacy of monarchy. The causes of the American Revolution were diverse and multifaceted. The colonists' grievances included taxation without representation, restrictions on trade, and the presence of British troops in the colonies. The Boston Massacre in 1770 and the Boston Tea Party in 1773 further heightened tensions and solidified the resolve for independence. Ultimately, the outbreak of armed conflict in 1775 at Lexington and Concord marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War. The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, served as a powerful statement of the colonists' grievances and their determination to establish a free and sovereign nation. The historical context of the American Revolution reflects the culmination of colonial aspirations for self-government, Enlightenment ideas of individual rights, and a series of grievances against British rule.

Establishment of the United States as a sovereign nation; the creation of a new form of government based on democratic principles; adoption of the United States Constitution; redefinition of citizenship; abolition of feudalism; expansion of territorial boundaries, etc.

One of the major effects of the American Revolution was the establishment of a new form of government based on the principles of democracy and individual rights. The United States Constitution, born out of the revolution, served as a model for constitutional governments around the world. The idea of a government by the people and for the people spread, inspiring future revolutions and movements for independence. The revolution also challenged the existing colonial powers, particularly the British Empire, and set in motion a wave of decolonization throughout the world. The success of the American colonies in breaking free from British rule demonstrated that colonies could successfully achieve independence, fueling nationalist movements in other parts of the world and ultimately leading to the dissolution of empires. The American Revolution also had significant economic effects. It established the United States as a new economic power and opened up opportunities for trade and commerce. The revolution encouraged the development of industry and innovation, setting the stage for the industrial revolution that would follow. Furthermore, the American Revolution had a profound impact on the institution of slavery. While the revolution did not immediately abolish slavery, it planted the seeds of abolitionism and sparked debates on the issue of human rights and equality. Lastly, the American Revolution inspired and influenced subsequent revolutions and movements for independence, such as the French Revolution, which drew inspiration from the ideals of liberty, equality, and popular sovereignty championed by the American colonists.

Public opinion on the American Revolution varied greatly during the time period and continues to be interpreted differently today. In the 18th century, support for the revolution was not unanimous. Some colonists were loyal to the British Crown and opposed the revolutionary movement, while others actively supported the cause of independence. Public opinion shifted over time as events unfolded and more people became aware of the grievances and aspirations of the revolutionaries. Many colonists, especially those who felt oppressed by British policies, embraced the ideals of liberty, self-determination, and representation. They saw the revolution as a necessary step towards achieving these principles and securing their rights as free individuals. Others were motivated by economic factors, such as trade restrictions and taxation without representation, which fueled their support for independence. However, there were also segments of the population that remained loyal to Britain. Some believed in the benefits of British rule, such as protection and stability, while others feared the potential chaos and uncertainty that could result from a revolution. In modern times, public opinion on the American Revolution tends to be positive, with many viewing it as a pivotal moment in history that laid the foundation for democratic governance and individual freedoms. The ideals and principles that emerged from the revolution continue to shape American identity and influence public discourse on issues of liberty, equality, and self-governance.

1. The American Revolution lasted for eight years, from 1775 to 1783, making it one of the longest and most significant conflicts in American history. 2. The American Revolution had a profound impact on the world stage. It inspired other countries and movements seeking independence and democracy, such as the French Revolution that followed in 1789. 3. While often overlooked, women made significant contributions to the American Revolution. They served as spies, messengers, nurses, and even soldiers. Some notable examples include Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to join the Continental Army, and Abigail Adams, who advocated for women's rights.

The topic of the American Revolution holds immense importance for academic exploration and essay writing due to its profound impact on the world and the enduring legacy it left behind. Firstly, the American Revolution marked a pivotal moment in history where thirteen colonies fought for their independence from British rule, leading to the formation of the United States of America. It represents a significant event in the development of democracy and self-governance, serving as an inspiration for subsequent revolutions worldwide. Studying the American Revolution allows us to understand the principles and ideals that shaped the nation's foundation, such as liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness. It sheds light on the struggles and sacrifices made by individuals who fought for their rights and paved the way for the establishment of a democratic government. Furthermore, exploring this topic provides insights into the complexities of colonial society, the causes of the revolution, the role of key figures, and the social, economic, and political consequences of the conflict.

1. Bailyn, B. (1992). The Ideological Origins of the American Revolution. Belknap Press. 2. Ellis, J. J. (2013). American Creation: Triumphs and Tragedies at the Founding of the Republic. Vintage. 3. Ferling, J. E. (2015). Whirlwind: The American Revolution and the War That Won It. Bloomsbury Publishing. 4. Fischer, D. H. (2006). Washington's Crossing. Oxford University Press. 5. Maier, P. (1997). American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence. Vintage. 6. Middlekauff, R. (2005). The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763-1789. Oxford University Press. 7. Middlekauff, R. (2007). The Glorious Cause: The American Revolution, 1763-1789. Oxford University Press. 8. Nash, G. B. (2006). The Unknown American Revolution: The Unruly Birth of Democracy and the Struggle to Create America. Penguin Books. 9. Tuchman, B. W. (1989). The First Salute: A View of the American Revolution. Random House. 10. Wood, G. S. (1992). The Radicalism of the American Revolution. Vintage.

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American Revolution Summary and Essay Topics

American Revolution Definition & Importance 

If you have been assigned to write an American revolution essay and feel a little overwhelmed by the amount of information available on this subject, you have come to the right place. In this article, we are going to discuss everything from the American revolution date to crucial events necessary for a comprehensive paper.  

For background information, let's clarify when was the American Revolution and move on to discuss the American revolution definition. A colonial revolt happened during the American revolution (note the American Revolution timeline 1775 to 1783 when the war begins). They defeated the mother country in the war with help from France and other countries. As a result, the thirteen Colonies won independence from Great Britain, establishing the United States of America. 

The American Revolution was just as a significant turning point for the entire world as the battle of Hastings 1066 was for England. It marked the end of the European colonial empires in the Americas and the beginning of the United States as a world power. It significantly impacted the world, including the spread of democracy. The Revolution was the culmination of the political American Enlightenment and the American War of Independence.

American Revolution Essay Outline

If you are struggling to figure out the American revolution essay outline and still debating whether to hire a college essay writer or do it on your own, let us offer you a little blueprint on how to write an essay on the American Revolution.

Remember that you are about to discuss a widely known and debated historic event. Your essay should be based on credible information and stick to the point. Start by establishing the historical background with the American Revolution summary, provide the American Revolution timeline and describe the causes of the Revolution. Don't forget to mention the end of the Revolution and its effects on the rest of the world. 

American Revolution Summary

Essentially you are assigned to write about 'how revolutionary was the American revolution?' essay. To achieve the goal, you need to provide an easy-to-digest American revolution map of the essential events that you can turn into a comprehensive American revolution summary. 

Don't freak out because we will show you how simple it is. Here is an outline that you can use to get inspired and start to write an A+ essay on the American Revolution:  

• The American Revolution started with a revolt by North American colonies in 1765 and ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1783
• The American Patriots of the American Colonies wanted to gain independence from the mother country, Great Britain.
• Founding Fathers including John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin signed and published the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776. The document declared the colonies to be independent states and justified the Revolution.
• Major American Revolution battles include the battle of Camden, the battle of Cowpens, the siege of Yorktown, the battles of Saratoga, etc.
• The Patriots won the American Revolutionary War in alliance with the French government.
• The American revolution era ended with the ratification of the Constitution in 1787 and of the Bill of Rights in 1791.
• The Revolution marked the end of British rule in the American continent and the beginning of the United States as a political superpower.

American Revolution Timeline 

Your A+ essay about the Revolution will not be complete without the American Revolution timeline. Ensure that your readers clearly understand when the thirteen colonies started the revolt and what major events occurred before the American nation celebrated independence.  

Here you can find the American revolution timeline 1765 to 1783: 

• 1765: The Sugar Act was followed by the Stamp Act passed by the British Parliament, imposing taxes on the colonies.
• 1770: The Boston Massacre occurs, in which British soldiers kill five American colonists.
• 1773: The Tea Act is passed, leading to the Boston Tea Party.
• 1775: The American Revolutionary War begins with the Battles of Lexington and Concord.
• 1776: The Declaration of Independence is adopted by the Continental Congress.
• 1777: The Patriots win a major victory at the Battle of Saratoga, leading France to enter the war on their side.
• 1778: The Patriots win several essential battles of the American Revolution against the British Empire.
• 1783: The Treaty of Paris is signed, officially ending the war and recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation.

Causes of American Revolution 

Your readers must be wondering what caused the American Revolution. In your essay, answer their questions by providing a handful of causes of American Revolution. There has never been a historic event that occurred only for one reason, so include all the various critical factors.

Below you will find the most significant factors that led to the American Revolution war:

• Political : The British government imposed taxes on the colonies without providing any representation for colonial interests. 
• Military : The British army had stationed troops in the colonies, which was seen as a provocative move by the colonists.
• Economic : The British government had also implemented a number of trade regulations that were detrimental to the economic interests of the colonies.
• Social : There were social and cultural differences between the colonies and Great Britain contributed to the growing rift between the two sides.
• Intellectual : The Enlightenment, a philosophical movement that emphasized the importance of reason and individual rights, strongly influenced the colonists and shaped their ideas about freedom and self-governance. 

When Did the American Revolution End

Probably the most challenging question you will have to answer is how long did the American Revolution last? Technically the Treaty of Paris signed in 1783 finished the American Revolutionary war, but was it the end of the American Revolution era?

To keep your readers engaged, close your essay by making conclusive points about when did the American Revolution end. Below we have listed events that marked the end of the Revolution:

• 1783: The Treaty of Paris was signed, officially ending the war and recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation.
• 1787: The Constitution is written and ratified, establishing the United States government.
• 1789: George Washington is elected as the first President of the United States
• 1791: The Bill of Rights is ratified. 
• 1795: Jay's treaty is signed, which should have fixed the unresolved issues between the States and the British crown.  

American Revolution Essay Topics

Writing about every nuanced detail that occurred during the American Revolution in one paper is next to impossible. Instead, choose a specific theme and tell a story through a certain lens. Your essay on American Revolution will provide a fresh view and be easier to digest.

Next, we will discuss several interesting topics you can turn into a stellar essay, or use as a hook for American Revolution essay.

How Revolutionary Was the American Revolution?

You open your assignment, and it says: 'how revolutionary was the American Revolution 5 paragraph essay', or look at an exam paper, and it asks you to write 'how revolutionary was the American Revolution dbq essay?' – you don't have to worry, because we have you covered. 

Start your American Revolution essay by mentioning that the American Revolution was a highly influential and significant event not just for American history but also for the rest of the world. Don't forget that it marked the first time a colony had successfully revolted against its colonial oppressor and established itself as an independent new nation. 

Tell readers that the ideas and principles that supported the Revolution, such as the right to self-governance and individual rights, were highly innovative. To demonstrate its influence, the American victory encouraged the French Revolution.

How Radical Was the American Revolution? 

The assignment may require you to write 'how radical was the American Revolution essay' instead of 'was the American Revolution revolutionary essay' - we've got you covered, too.

Instead of jumping to conclusions from the very beginning, start answering your American revolution essay questions gradually. But first, make a case for your point of view. Start with stating that by battling against Great Britain, American colonies renovated the political, economic, and social systems of the past. In addition, the ideas behind the Revolution, such as 'life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,' were radical and significantly impacted the development of modern societies.

Don't forget to also make a case for the opposing view. Even though the Revolution introduced basic human rights to the political realm, it did not affect everyone. How did radical ideas and the American Revolution affect slaves? One might assure that slavery stayed a strong institution for many years after the Revolution. 

Was the American Revolution Virtuous? 

Let's discuss one of the most interesting American Revolution essay topics: 'was the American revolution virtuous?' essay.

Start by stating that many factors should be considered when discussing whether the American Revolution was virtuous. On the one hand, the thirteen colonies fought for democracy and individual rights, which are values that are commonly considered to be virtuous. But on the other hand, they were motivated by a sense of justice, and their fight against British colonies resulted in the decline of European colonial empires. 

On the other hand, while fighting against English colonization, the patriots overlooked the rights of African Americans, Native Americans, and women. In your essay, you should elaborate on how the neglect of minorities might have undermined the virtuous nature of the American Revolution. 

Causes and Effects of the American Revolution

If you are searching for an exciting topic, consider writing the Causes and Effects of the American Revolution essay. You and your readers will take a journey through American history, how the independent nation came into existence and how it affects modern American citizens. 

In your paper, mention that the American Revolutionary war was preceded by the Seven Years War fought by Great Britain, France, Prussia, and Austria over various colonies worldwide, including North America. The global conflict ended with Great Britain emerging as the dominant world power. However, it left British colonists in deep debt and contributed to the tensions that eventually led to the American Revolution. 

The chosen theme allows you to mention the Stamp Act, the British taxation system, and the Enlightenment ideas that set political upheaval in motion. When discussing the effects of the Revolution don't forget to note that the former war colonies put up inspired the French Revolution. The ideas that united the Patriots shaped the world we know now.  

Why Was There an American Revolution? 

Suppose you want to move on from simple questions such as when did the American Revolution start? In that case, you can always answer the more difficult questions in the 'why was there an American Revolution essay.'

To answer the question of why the American Revolution happened:

• Make sure your audience sees a clear connection between American history and the rest of the world.
• Explain how the Seven Years War and the French and Indian War over colonial territories affected the American colonies.
• Indicate the link between British policies and the intolerable acts that led to the Revolutionary War. 

In addition, note the role of revolutionary minds such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Samuel Adams in creating the spirit of the Revolution. Finally, don't forget the contributions of people like Benedict Arnold, who led the American continental army.  

Was the American Revolution Justified? 

'Was the American Revolution justified?' essay will cover more challenging topics about the Revolution. If you don't have time to write a paper, you can buy an essay online or use our outline to create a comprehensive report. 

As the justification of the American Revolution is up to interpretation and can be controversial, you should provide arguments for all sides. Explain that the Patriots who fought the British colonists did it for the sake of freedom and justice. The Boston Tea Party served a noble purpose. The Declaration of Independence shows the values the Founding Fathers tried to build the new nation on. 

However, the American national government turned a blind eye to African Americans and other minorities. In addition, while bringing freedom, the Revolution was a violent event that caused a lot of suffering. Therefore, when writing an essay about the justification of the Revolution take all of this into consideration.  

Additional Facts about the American Revolution 

In search of the most suitable theme for your American Revolution essay, you will come across many well-known American historical events. Let's talk about a few interesting and less-known facts about the history of the American Revolution.

Sons of the American Revolution

The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) was founded in 1889 and is a hereditary society that promotes the principles of the American Revolution and honors the people who fought in the American Revolution War.

To be eligible for membership, an individual must be a direct descendant of a person who served in the Revolutionary War or provided support for the cause of independence. The SAR has a membership of over 30,000 and has headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky. The organization supports educational programs, patriotic events, and historical research. The SAR also awards scholarships and grants to support the study of American history and the ideals of the Revolution. 

Daughters of the American Revolution 

Whether you are writing an essay on the American Revolution or competing in the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest, the information below will help you write a more comprehensive paper. 

Just like SAR, Daughters of the American Revolution is a hereditary society uniting the women who are direct heirs of people who fought during the Revolutionary War, signed the United States Declaration of Independence, served as civil servants of State governments or continental congress, or provided other support during the Revolutionary War. 

Founded in 1890, the DAR has its headquarters in Washington, D.C., and unites over 185,000 members. DAR volunteers to help U.S. veterans and America's service personnel. The organization also awards scholarships and grants to students interested in studying American history.  

American Revolution Museum at Yorktown 

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, Virginia, is a valuable site for those interested in learning more about what the American Revolution refers to. It is located on the site of the decisive Battle of Yorktown, fought in 1781 by the combined army of Americans and French led by General Washington. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the American Revolutionary War. 

The museum shows a number of items from the Revolutionary War, many exhibits that explore the causes of the Revolution, and the experiences of the people who lived through it. You can also find a re-creation of the Continental Army encampment where visitors can learn about the daily lives of the soldiers. In addition, you can enjoy a film that tells a story of the events of the Revolution.  

Need Academic Assistance? 

If the American Revolution essay example is not enough and you need a little more help, we've got you.  

'Wish someone could write my history essay for me !' – is this the first thought that entered your head when you saw your American Revolution or Civil War essay assignment? Then you have come to the right place. Let our essay writing services take the stress off your shoulders! Our expert writers will craft a top-quality essay about any major historical event from the French and Indian war to the Reconstruction Era. So why waste any more time stressing over essays? Leave it to the pros and have some fun while you're at it!

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Why did the American Revolution End

This essay about the end of the American Revolution highlights the multifaceted factors that led to its conclusion. It explores the pivotal role of political unrest, military valor, diplomatic maneuvers, and economic strain in shaping the destiny of the fledgling nation. Through the resilience of the Continental Army, astute diplomacy, and ideological fervor, the revolutionaries secured victory against the British Empire. The essay underscores how the revolution’s legacy of freedom and democracy continues to inspire movements for liberty worldwide, emphasizing the enduring significance of this transformative moment in history.

How it works

The grand tapestry of history unfolds before us, revealing the intricate mosaic of events that culminated in the end of the American Revolution. To comprehend this epochal moment, we must embark on a journey through the corridors of time, unraveling the myriad threads of political intrigue, military valor, economic upheaval, and ideological fervor that converged to shape the destiny of a fledgling nation.

At its genesis, the American Revolution sprang forth from the fertile soil of discontent, watered by the tears of colonial oppression and nurtured by the flames of revolutionary zeal.

The grievances of the colonists, simmering beneath the surface for years, erupted into open rebellion against British rule. The rallying cry of “no taxation without representation” echoed through the streets, as patriots stood united in their quest for liberty and self-governance.

The denouement of the American Revolution was not merely a tale of brute force and military prowess but a saga of resilience and fortitude in the face of overwhelming odds. The Continental Army, led by stalwart leaders like George Washington, defied the might of the British Empire with unyielding resolve and unshakeable courage. From the frozen fields of Valley Forge to the sun-scorched plains of Yorktown, the American forces waged a valiant struggle for freedom, inspiring generations to come.

Yet, the denouement of the American Revolution was not solely forged on the battlefield but also in the hallowed halls of diplomacy and statecraft. The astute maneuverings of American envoys, such as Benjamin Franklin, on the international stage proved pivotal in securing vital support from France, whose intervention tipped the scales in favor of the American cause. The Franco-American alliance not only bolstered the military capabilities of the colonies but also exerted diplomatic pressure on Britain, hastening the end of hostilities.

Economically, the strains of prolonged warfare exacted a heavy toll on both sides, as the coffers of empires ran dry and economies teetered on the brink of collapse. The economic blockade imposed by the Continental Congress choked off vital supply lines, crippling Britain’s ability to sustain its war effort. Meanwhile, internal dissent and opposition to the war within Britain fueled calls for reconciliation and an end to hostilities.

Moreover, the ideological underpinnings of the revolution reverberated far beyond the shores of America, inspiring movements for liberty and emancipation across the globe. The principles of freedom, equality, and self-determination enshrined in the Declaration of Independence ignited the flames of revolution in distant lands, shaping the course of world history for centuries to come.

In the crucible of conflict, the American people emerged triumphant, forging a new nation founded on the bedrock of democratic ideals and individual liberties. Their collective sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom paved the way for the birth of a nation that would serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to oppressed peoples everywhere.

In conclusion, the denouement of the American Revolution was a culmination of diverse forces and factors, from the valor of soldiers on the battlefield to the cunning diplomacy of statesmen in the halls of power. It was a testament to the enduring spirit of liberty and the transformative power of ideas that transcend borders and generations. As we gaze upon the legacy of the American Revolution, we are reminded that the flame of freedom burns eternal, lighting the way for all who dare to dream of a better tomorrow.

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