Taxes & Smuggling - Prelude to Revolution Crash Course US History

The video explores the American Revolution, distinguishing it from the War for Independence. It discusses the impact of the Seven Years' War, British taxation, and colonial responses, including the Stamp Act and Boston Massacre. The Intolerable Acts and the Continental Congress are highlighted as pivotal moments leading to the war. Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' is noted for its influence on American independence.

What is a common misconception about the American Revolution?

• It was led by the British.

• It started in the 1800s.

• It was a peaceful transition.

• It was primarily about taxes.

Why were the colonists upset after the Seven Years' War?

• They had to pay for war debts without representation.

• They were forced to join the British army.

• They lost their land to the French.

• They were not allowed to trade with Spain.

What was the main issue with the Stamp Act?

• It was a voluntary tax.

• It required a stamp on all printed materials.

• It was enforced by colonial courts.

• It taxed only imported goods.

Who were the Sons of Liberty?

• A group of British loyalists.

• A colonial resistance group.

• A group of French revolutionaries.

• A British tax collection agency.

What was the outcome of the Boston Massacre?

• The British imposed more taxes.

• The colonists gained independence.

• The British soldiers were all executed.

• Most soldiers were acquitted, some convicted of manslaughter.

What was the colonial response to the Intolerable Acts?

• They accepted the acts peacefully.

• They sought help from France.

• They declared war immediately.

• They formed the First Continental Congress.

What was the significance of the First Continental Congress?

• It was a trade agreement with France.

• It was a meeting of British loyalists.

• It declared independence from Britain.

• It was the first colonial government.

How did Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' influence the colonies?

• It inspired the push for independence.

• It was ignored by most colonists.

• It argued for reconciliation with Britain.

• It discouraged independence.

What was a key argument in 'Common Sense'?

• Colonists should pay more taxes.

• The British should control all trade.

• Monarchy is the best form of government.

• An island should not govern a continent.

What was the result of the Second Continental Congress?

• They signed the Declaration of Independence.

• They disbanded without any decisions.

• They surrendered to the British.

• They formed an alliance with Spain.