Question 1

What were the main causes of the American Revolution?

Accepted Answer

The main causes include British attempts to tighten control over the colonies after the Seven Years' War, such as new taxes (Stamp Act, Townshend Acts) and laws (Quartering Act, Intolerable Acts) that violated colonial self-government. Enlightenment ideas about natural rights and 'no taxation without representation' fuelled resistance. Key events like the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party escalated tensions, leading to war in 1775.

Question 2

How did the Seven Years' War lead to the American Revolution?

Accepted Answer

The Seven Years' War (1756–63) left Britain with a huge national debt, so Parliament decided to tax the colonies directly to pay for their defence. This ended the policy of 'salutary neglect' and angered colonists who had no representation in Parliament. The war also removed the French threat, making colonists less dependent on Britain for protection, and gave them military experience and confidence.

Question 3

What was the Stamp Act and why did it cause such opposition?

Accepted Answer

The Stamp Act (1765) required colonists to pay a tax on all printed materials, such as newspapers, legal documents, and playing cards. It was the first direct tax on the colonies (not a trade duty) and affected many people. Colonists opposed it because they had no representatives in Parliament to vote on the tax ('no taxation without representation'), and they organised boycotts and protests, leading to its repeal in 1766.

Question 4

Who were the key figures in the American Revolution?

Accepted Answer

Key British figures include King George III, who insisted on colonial obedience, and Prime Minister Lord North, who implemented coercive policies. Colonial leaders include George Washington (commander of the Continental Army), Thomas Jefferson (author of the Declaration of Independence), and Samuel Adams (organiser of protests). Other important figures are Benjamin Franklin (diplomat) and John Adams (advocate for independence).

Question 5

What was the significance of the Boston Massacre?

Accepted Answer

The Boston Massacre (1770) occurred when British soldiers fired into a crowd of colonists, killing five people. It was used as propaganda by colonial radicals like Paul Revere, who depicted it as a brutal attack on innocent civilians. The event increased anti-British sentiment and united colonists against British rule, though the soldiers were defended in court by future president John Adams and most were acquitted.

Question 6

How did the Treaty of Paris (1783) affect Britain and America?

Accepted Answer

The Treaty of Paris (1783) ended the American War of Independence. Britain recognised the independence of the Thirteen Colonies and ceded territory east of the Mississippi River to the United States. For Britain, it was a major loss that led to political changes, including the fall of Lord North's government, and a re-evaluation of imperial policy, focusing more on trade and less on direct control.

British America, 1713–83: empire and revolution

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