Introduction
The American Revolution, a pivotal event in world history, marked the birth of the United States of America. It was a time of immense change and struggle as the American colonists sought to break free from British rule and create a nation built on principles of freedom, equality, and democracy. America celebrates Independence day on 4th July. In this blog, we will explore the key events, leading figures, and the lasting impact of the American Revolution.
Background and Tensions
In year 1492 Christopher Columbus had discovered the new continent but he thought that the place which is found by him is the India. Later Amerigo Vespucci had done the survey in the continent and found that the land is new to the world and no written documentary evidence of existence is available previously. On the name of Amerigo Vespucci the name of new found continent given as America. After that European countries had been started establishing colonies in the new continent. Spain had established colonies in Present day Mexico Country, Portugal established colonies in present day Brazil, France and England had established colonies in present day Canada and USA. England had established 13 colonies in the eastern Coast. In the 1700s, the thirteen American colonies had grown and flourished under British governance. However, tensions began to rise due to various factors. One crucial issue was taxation without representation. The British Parliament imposed taxes on the colonies without their consent, leading to protests and discontent among the colonists.
Circumstances of revolt:
- Political setup: During the American Revolution, the political setup was quite different in the colonies. The colonists had representatives who were chosen to make decisions for them in the legislature and executive branches of government. However, the ultimate authority rested with the British, who appointed military leaders to oversee the colonies. So, while the colonists had some say in their own governance, the British still held significant power. In the 18th century, many people migrated to America from other countries in search of better opportunities. The colonies had a relationship with Britain that was beneficial for the people. Britain fought on behalf of the colonies against native populations and other European countries, which helped protect the colonies. Over time, a distinct American identity began to develop in the colonies. This was influenced by the social, cultural, and economic growth that took place. People in the colonies started to have their own unique way of life and values that set them apart from Britain and other European nations.
- Socio Cultural Setup: European society was so different than American society. There was no religious persecution in the American which is unlike with European society. Protestant and catholic people peacefully had coexisted in the American society. America had developed from root therefore, religion violence was absent in the America. Religion had treated as personal choice and matter of the individual. Intellectual people had established universities in the America. Universities payed vital role in developing modern society. Universities had spread scientific approached and logical thinking among the citizen of America. America had only 2 classes in society which is rich and poor. No Feudalism system was existed in the society. All high class post was allocated on the basis of merit and not by birth. It helped in to make America as a republic nation.
- Economic Setup: American economy was capitalist, where almost zero government intervention was involved in the trade and business. Goods used to sell for profit. Britain framed the policies which were beneficial for them not for America.
Information of taxes imposed on colonies by British are as follows:
- Enumerated Commodities Act 1660: The Enumerated Commodities Act specifically targeted colonial goods such as tobacco, sugar, and indigo. It mandated that these commodities could only be exported to England or other English colonies. Similar to the Navigation Act, the purpose was to maintain England’s monopoly on these valuable products and ensure that they were sold at English markets, generating wealth for the British Empire.
- Navigation Act 1651: The main objective of the Navigation Act was to ensure that the majority of colonial trade was conducted with England and carried on English ships. It required all colonial imports and exports to be transported on English vessels or vessels owned by the colonists themselves. This measure aimed to boost the British shipping industry and increase the flow of wealth to England. Additionally, the act aimed to restrict colonial trade with other European nations. It prohibited the direct export of certain colonial goods, such as sugar and tobacco, to any country other than England. This restriction aimed to maintain England’s monopoly over certain products and protect its own merchants from competition.
- Hat Act 1732: The Hat Act was passed by the British Parliament in 1732 to regulate the hat-making industry in the American colonies. It aimed to protect the interests of British hat manufacturers by prohibiting the export of hats produced in the colonies to any country outside the British Empire. The act required colonial hat makers to send their hats exclusively to British markets, thereby ensuring that British manufacturers had a monopoly over the trade of hats.
- Iron Act (1750): The Iron Act, passed in 1750, was another trade-related law imposed by the British Parliament. It targeted the iron industry in the American colonies, particularly the production of raw iron. The act restricted the colonies from establishing new ironworks and processing iron beyond a certain stage, such as producing iron products like tools or finished goods. The intention was to reserve these manufacturing activities for Britain, forcing the colonies to rely on British imports for such goods.
The Spark: The Boston Tea Party
In 1773, one significant event ignited the flame of revolution – the Boston Tea Party. In response to the Tea Act, which granted a British tea monopoly, American colonists boarded British ships and dumped tons of tea into the Boston Harbor. This act of defiance illustrated the growing resistance against British oppression.
The Continental Congress and Independence
In 1774, representatives from the colonies came together to form the Continental Congress, seeking a peaceful resolution with Britain. The purpose of congress was to oppose polices of Britain and discuss future politics of America. However, as tensions escalated, and the British responded with force, the idea of independence gained traction. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, drafted primarily by Thomas Jefferson, declaring the colonies’ freedom from British rule.
In the congress Benjamin Franklin had proposed that to make the American union of all colonies but the same proposal rejected at that time.
The Revolutionary War
The American Revolution turned into an armed conflict between the American patriots and the British forces. The war began in 1775 and lasted until 1783. Despite facing numerous challenges and defeats, the determination of the American forces, led by George Washington, proved to be instrumental in the eventual victory.
The Turning Point: The Battle of Saratoga
In 1777, the tide of the war shifted during the Battle of Saratoga. The American victory at this critical battle convinced France to ally with the American colonists. With French support, the Americans gained valuable assistance in terms of troops, supplies, and naval power.
Allied Support and Victory
The French and Spanish played significant roles in supporting the American cause. Spain declared war against Britain in 1779, while the French Navy played a crucial role in securing the American victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. The combined efforts of American, French, and Spanish forces led to a decisive triumph over the British.
The Treaty of Paris and the Birth of a Nation
In 1783, the Treaty of Paris was signed, officially ending the Revolutionary War. Britain recognized the independence of the United States, and the new nation’s boundaries were established. The former British colonies had successfully secured their freedom and laid the foundation for the United States of America.
The Founding Fathers and the Constitution
The Founding Fathers, a group of visionary leaders like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, and others, came together to establish a new government for the young nation. They drafted the United States Constitution, which emphasized the principles of democracy, separation of powers, and individual rights.
The Bill of Rights
The Constitution was later amended to include the Bill of Rights, guaranteeing individual liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. These amendments were crucial in ensuring that the government respected the rights of its citizens.
Legacy and Impact
The American Revolution had a profound and lasting impact on the world. It inspired revolutions and independence movements in other parts of the globe. The United States became a symbol of liberty and democracy, influencing nations worldwide.
Conclusion
The American Revolution was a courageous struggle that led to the birth of a new nation. The American Revolution had a profound impact not only on the thirteen colonies but also on the world stage. It inspired other nations to fight for their independence and laid the groundwork for the spread of democratic ideals and human rights worldwide.
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