Revolutionary War Review

Front

Enlightenment thinker who inspired Jefferson and believed in natural rights.

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John Locke

Answer explanation

Jefferson was influenced by John Locke, an Enlightenment thinker who argued that individuals possess natural rights simply by being human. Locke's ideas on natural rights significantly shaped Jefferson's views in the Declaration of Independence.

Front

On Christmas Day 1775, Washington crossed the Delaware River to surprise Hessian soldiers. The Continental Army won the _________which raised American morale and convinced many American soldiers to stay in the army.

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Battle of Trenton

Answer explanation

On Christmas Day 1775, Washington's surprise attack on Hessian soldiers led to the victory at the Battle of Trenton. This crucial win boosted American morale and encouraged soldiers to continue fighting in the Continental Army.

Front

American victory over British troops in 1777 that was a turning point in the American Revolution. Due to this victory, France agreed to help the Americans with ships, soldiers, supplies and money against their long-time enemy, Britain.

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Battle of Saratoga

Answer explanation

The Battle of Saratoga in 1777 was a crucial American victory that convinced France to support the colonies with military aid against Britain, marking a significant turning point in the American Revolution.

Front

During the Winter of Valley Forge, hunger, disease, and cold took the lives of 2500 of Washington’s men. A volunteer from Prussia named ____________________________ drilled soldiers, taught them how to use firearms, and created a more disciplined army.

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Baron von Steuben

Answer explanation

Baron von Steuben was a Prussian volunteer who trained Washington's troops at Valley Forge, improving their discipline and skills with firearms, which was crucial for the Continental Army's effectiveness.

Front

American intellectual, inventor, and politician who was sent to France to ask for military aid and a loan during the American Revolution.

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Benjamin Franklin

Answer explanation

Benjamin Franklin was sent to France during the American Revolution to secure military aid and loans, making him a key diplomat. Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and John Adams did not fulfill this specific role.

Front

“. . . I challenge the warmest advocate for reconciliation, to show, a single advantage that this continent can reap, by being connected with Great Britain. I repeat the challenge, not a single advantage is derived. Our corn will fetch its price in any market in Europe, and our imported goods must be paid for, buy them where we will. . . .” — Thomas Paine, 1776  

In this statement, Thomas Paine suggested that the American colonies should

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declare independence from England

Answer explanation

In this statement, Thomas Paine argues that the American colonies gain no benefits from being connected to Great Britain, implying that they should declare independence to pursue their own economic interests.

Front

Which of these men helped found the Sons of Liberty and took an active role in protesting British taxes? John Locke, Samuel Adams, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson

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Samuel Adams

Answer explanation

Samuel Adams was a key figure in the American Revolution, co-founding the Sons of Liberty and actively protesting against British taxation, making him the correct choice for this question.

Front

Which two old English documents advocated for limiting the king's power and served as inspirations for parts of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution?

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Magna Carta and English Bill of Rights

Answer explanation

The Magna Carta (1215) limited the king's power and established legal principles, while the English Bill of Rights (1689) further restricted royal authority. Both documents inspired the framers of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.

Front

Why did Patriot morale rise after the Battle of Bunker Hill even though they lost the battle?

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They felt they could have won if they had more ammunition

Answer explanation

Patriot morale rose after the Battle of Bunker Hill because they believed they could have won if they had more ammunition. This feeling of potential victory boosted their confidence despite the loss.

Front

Which rights were the citizens expecting the government to "secure" according to the Declaration of Independence?

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Unalienable Rights

Answer explanation

The citizens expected the government to secure their Unalienable Rights, which include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, as stated in the Declaration of Independence.