The video explores the journey to American independence, starting with the Declaration of Independence in 1776. It discusses the grievances of the American colonies against British rule, the gradual shift towards independence, and the societal and economic factors at play. The video also covers the escalation of tensions leading to the Revolutionary War and the role of the Continental Congress in uniting the colonies and appointing George Washington as the army commander.

Who were some of the key figures involved in the First Continental Congress?

• James Madison and John Jay

• George Washington and Alexander Hamilton

• Patrick Henry and Samuel Adams

• Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and John Adams

What was the primary reason for the initial reluctance of the colonies to break away from Britain?

• Desire to maintain peace and avoid war

• Insufficient military resources

• Fear of economic collapse

• Lack of leadership

What marked the new society of transplanted Englishmen in the colonies?

• Strict social hierarchy

• Dependence on British imports

• Limited economic opportunities

• Social and geographical mobility

What was a major grievance of the American colonists against Great Britain?

• Overpopulation

• Lack of military support

• Taxation without representation

• Excessive freedom

What prediction did Peter Kalm make about the English colonies?

• They would remain loyal to Britain indefinitely

• They would become independent within 40 or 50 years

• They would fail economically

• They would be conquered by another European power

What event marked the start of the Revolutionary War?

• The clash at Lexington, Massachusetts

• The Boston Tea Party

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The First Continental Congress

Who was chosen as the commander of the army to defend the colonies?

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams