Essay On The Causes Of The American Revolution

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The American Revolution was a defining point in history in which American colonists fought for their independence and their constitutional rights. The war against Britain established the foundation the nation has been built on, and the event influenced political ideas and revolutions around the world. The causes of this incredible war can be traced back to the conflict-driven relations between Britain and the colonies. Britain had imposed taxes on the American colonies. Great Britain had run itself into an immense debt to protect America, and in order to pay the debt, as they claimed, the colonists would have to help contribute a share to the public expense. Britain asserted that it was within their right and duty to raise revenue for the empire. George Grenville, a member of Parliament stated: “That this kingdom has the sovereign, the supreme legislative power over America, is granted. It cannot be denied; and taxation is a part of that sovereign power. It is one branch of the legislation. . . . Protection and obedience are reciprocal. Great Britain protects America, America is bound …show more content…

On March 5, 1770, an enraged “patriot” mob gathered around a squad of British soldiers that were guarding the Boston Customs House. The crowd taunted and threw snowballs, stones, and sticks at the troops, and the soldiers, irritated and intimidated, fired into the mob. The street fight had resulted in the killing of five colonists. This event led to a campaign by the radicals to rouse to ire of the citizenry. This incident, termed a “massacre”, was used as propaganda. Paul Revere, a leader of the Boston Sons of Liberty, created an engraving to stir up anti-British feelings. The engraving was an inaccurate depiction of the event, and it capitalized the murders to highlight the brutality of Britain. The event increased tension between the Americans and the

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