Road to Independence: Key Events and Ideas of the American Revolution

The video explores the journey to American independence, starting with British taxes and colonial unrest. It highlights the influence of Enlightenment ideas, particularly John Locke's philosophy, on the colonists' fight for rights. Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense' played a crucial role in swaying public opinion towards independence. The drafting of the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson marked a pivotal moment, embodying Enlightenment principles. The video concludes with key battles like Saratoga and Yorktown, leading to the Treaty of Paris and the birth of the United States.

What event marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War?

• The meeting of the Continental Congress

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence

• The Boston Tea Party

• The battles at Concord and Lexington

What was the significance of the Boston Tea Party?

• It was a direct action against the tea tax

• It marked the start of the Revolutionary War

• It led to the repeal of all British taxes

• It was a peaceful protest against British taxes

Which Enlightenment thinker greatly influenced the American colonists' views on government?

• Thomas Hobbes

• John Locke

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

• Voltaire

What did John Locke believe about government?

• It should be hereditary

• It should be based on religious authority

• It should protect individual rights

• It should have absolute power

What was the main argument of Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense'?

• The colonies should remain loyal to the British crown

• The British king should rule the American colonies

• American independence would benefit humanity

• The colonies should seek peaceful resolution with Britain

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

• It convinced many of the need for independence

• It was ignored by most colonists

• It discouraged rebellion against Britain

• It supported the Loyalist cause

Who was tasked with drafting the Declaration of Independence?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

What Enlightenment idea is reflected in the Declaration of Independence?

• The necessity of a strong central government

• The right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness

• The importance of tradition

• The divine right of kings

Which battle is considered the turning point of the American Revolutionary War?

• Battle of Yorktown

• Battle of Saratoga

• Battle of Trenton

• Battle of Bunker Hill

What was the outcome of the Treaty of Paris?

• It recognized American independence

• It ended the French and Indian War

• It established British control over the colonies

• It led to the Boston Tea Party