Unit 2 - Key Events Leading to the American Revolution

French and Indian War

• A conflict between Britain and Spain in North America.

• A conflict between Britain and France (1754–1763) in North America. Britain won but was left with heavy debt, leading to new taxes on colonists.

• A war fought primarily in Europe between France and Germany.

• A treaty signed between Britain and France to end hostilities in North America.

Albany Plan of Union

• A plan proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1754 to unite the colonies under one government for defense and cooperation.

• A treaty signed between the British and the French in 1754.

• A proposal to establish a new colony in the Americas.

• A military strategy used during the French and Indian War.

Minutemen

• Colonial militia members who could be ready to fight at a minute's notice.

• Regular army soldiers trained for long-term combat.

• Civilian volunteers who supported the British army.

• Farmers who were conscripted into service during the war.

Boston Massacre

• A peaceful protest against British rule in 1770.

• A deadly clash in 1770 between British soldiers and colonists in Boston, used as propaganda by Patriots to fuel anti-British sentiment.

• A celebration of British military victories in America.

• A meeting of colonial leaders to discuss independence.

Trenton

• A surprise attack led by George Washington on Christmas night 1776, defeating Hessian troops in New Jersey.

• A major battle fought in New Jersey during the American Civil War.

• The capital city of New Jersey, known for its historical significance.

• A treaty signed in 1783 that ended the American Revolutionary War.

Quartering Act

• A British law requiring colonists to house and supply British soldiers stationed in the colonies.

• A law that allowed colonists to refuse to pay taxes to the British government.

• A regulation that mandated colonists to provide food and shelter for Native Americans.

• A statute that prohibited colonists from trading with other countries.

Loyalists vs. Patriots

• Loyalists wanted independence from Britain; Patriots supported British rule.

• Loyalists supported British rule during the Revolution; Patriots wanted independence from Britain.

• Loyalists were neutral during the Revolution; Patriots were in favor of British rule.

• Loyalists were the first to declare independence; Patriots remained loyal to the Crown.

Treaty of Paris of 1763

• It ended the American Revolutionary War.

• It resulted in France losing most of its North American territory to Britain.

• It established the boundaries of the United States.

• It was signed in 1783.

Natural Rights

• Fundamental rights such as life, liberty, and property

• Rights granted by the government

• Rights that can be taken away

• Rights that only apply to citizens

Common Sense

• A pamphlet by Thomas Paine that argued for American independence in clear, persuasive language.

• A book by Thomas Jefferson outlining the Declaration of Independence.

• A speech by George Washington urging unity among the colonies.

• An article by Benjamin Franklin promoting reconciliation with Britain.