America's Documents Of Freedom 1775-1786 - Introduction

The video features four subject matter experts discussing key historical events in American history. Wilson Smith provides insights into the Declaration of Independence, highlighting the backgrounds of its authors. Priscilla Zaddy discusses the collaborative nature of the Constitution's creation. Robert George McCormick explores the post-revolutionary period and the debate over the unification of the 13 colonies. Finally, Pulling Mayor describes the dramatic arrival of British forces during the independence debate.

Who was Wilson Smith, and what was his role in the program?

• A professor of history at MIT

• A professor of jurisprudence at Princeton University

• An associate professor of political science at the United States Naval Academy

• A professor emeritus of history at UC Davis

What is highlighted about the individuals who drafted the Declaration of Independence?

• They were well-educated colonists

• They were all military leaders

• They were primarily from Europe

• They were mostly uneducated

What is emphasized about the drafting of the Constitution?

• It was written by a single individual

• It was a collaborative effort with specific contributions

• It was primarily influenced by European laws

• It was completed in a single day

What was the main question after the success of the revolution?

• Whether to return to British rule

• How to divide the colonies into separate nations

• The terms of association among the 13 colonies

• Whether to form alliances with other countries

What significant event occurred as the Second Continental Congress debated independence?

• The discovery of new territories

• The election of the first President

• The arrival of British ships in Manhattan

• The signing of the Constitution