๐ Topic Summary
The American Revolution wasn't just a sudden outburst; it was the result of growing tensions between Great Britain and its American colonies. These tensions stemmed from a series of grievances โ complaints and objections the colonists had about British rule. These grievances, often rooted in issues of taxation, representation, and freedom, fueled the colonists' desire for independence. Understanding these grievances is key to understanding the birth of the United States.
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the following terms with their correct definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Quartering |
A. Tax on printed materials |
| 2. Taxation without Representation |
B. Forcing colonists to house British soldiers |
| 3. Stamp Act |
C. Trade restrictions limiting colonial commerce |
| 4. Intolerable Acts |
D. Series of laws seen as oppressive by colonists |
| 5. Mercantilism |
E. Colonists being taxed without elected representatives in Parliament |
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided below.
The colonists felt that the British government was being __________. They protested against the __________ imposed by the Stamp Act and other laws. They believed they should have __________ in Parliament, arguing that "__________ is tyranny!" The __________ forced colonists to house British soldiers, adding to their discontent. Overall, the colonists felt that their __________ were being ignored.
Words: unjust, taxes, representation, Quartering Act, Taxation without Representation, rights
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are a colonist living in 1775. Explain why you support or oppose independence from Great Britain. Use specific examples of colonial grievances to support your answer.