American Revolution Key Events & Figures
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Questions and Answers

What was the primary intention of the Second Continental Congress when it first convened?

  • To negotiate a treaty with Britain
  • To reorganize the colonial government
  • To continue fighting in hope of addressing grievances (correct)
  • To declare independence from Britain

    • What characteristic of George Washington contributed to his selection as commander of the army?

  • His military experience as a general
  • His popularity among the colonial leaders
  • His tall stature and appearance of a leader (correct)
  • His extensive knowledge of military strategy

    • Which key event occurred during the colonists' attempt to invade Canada in 1775?

  • Surrender of British forces
  • Capture of Montreal by General Montgomery (correct)
  • Formation of an alliance with French-Canadians
  • Victory at Quebec

    • What happened to the campaign in Canada at the end of 1775?

    <p>Montgomery was killed and Arnold was wounded</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a consequence of the British actions in January 1776?

    <p>The British burned Norfolk, Virginia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a central argument made by Thomas Paine in 'Common Sense'?

    <p>A smaller body should not control a larger one</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which event highlighted the tension between the colonists and British forces in 1775?

    <p>The burning of Falmouth, Maine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sentiment did the French-Canadians have towards the American forces during the Canadian campaign?

    <p>They resented the anti-Catholic invaders</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event led to the formal recognition of the USA by Britain in 1783?

    <p>The Peace at Paris</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one reason Loyalists supported Britain during the American Revolution?

    <p>They feared anarchy without British rule</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who secretly negotiated with the British, fearing that France would betray American interests?

    <p>John Jay</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant territory was granted to the USA as part of the Treaty of Paris?

    <p>Land extending to the Mississippi River</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What disadvantage did many Black Loyalists face after the war?

    <p>They often found themselves sold back into slavery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a consequence of the loss felt by Britain in other territories during the Revolutionary War?

    <p>Made them eager to negotiate peace with America</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Hugh Gaine have following the Revolutionary War among the Loyalists?

    <p>He successfully reopened his business and supported the new government</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the provisions regarding Loyalists in the Treaty of Paris?

    <p>Loyalists retained their rights to collect debts owed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group in Britain was in control of Parliament during the negotiations of the Treaty of Paris?

    <p>Whigs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common characteristic of many Loyalists in America?

    <p>They were conservative and well-educated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Thomas Paine's main argument about government in his work?

    <p>Governors and judges should derive their power from the consent of the people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    On what date did Congress finally approve the Declaration of Independence?

    <p>July 4, 1776</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group was primarily associated with loyalty to the British crown during the American Revolutionary War?

    <p>Loyalists</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant challenge faced by General Washington during the early stages of the Revolutionary War?

    <p>Outnumbered by the British forces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which battle is remembered for Washington's surprise attack on Hessian troops?

    <p>Battle of Trenton</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the strategic goal of Burgoyne's invasion in 1777?

    <p>To sever New England from the other colonies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the Patriots during the Revolutionary War?

    <p>They predominantly belonged to the younger generation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Loyalists play during the American Revolutionary War?

    <p>They supported the British cause through various means.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one reason some Loyalists opposed the revolution?

    <p>They feared loss of property and status.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did General Howe's decisions impact the Revolutionary War?

    <p>He acted cautiously, allowing Washington to escape.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a consequence of the Declaration of Independence for Loyalists?

    <p>Their properties were often confiscated by Patriots.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one condition that benefited the British during the Revolutionary War?

    <p>They only controlled areas with strong Loyalist support.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tactic did Washington use to mislead the British during his campaign?

    <p>He left campfires burning to give a false impression of his forces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome of the Brandywine Creek and Germantown battles for Washington's troops?

    <p>They suffered defeats, which led to their withdrawal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the battle at Saratoga?

    <p>It convinced France to ally with the Americans.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Benjamin Franklin express caution towards the French alliance?

    <p>Due to France's pro-Catholic stance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy did General Nathanael Greene use during the Carolina campaign?

    <p>Delaying his retreats while losing battles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major consequence of General Benedict Arnold's betrayal?

    <p>Increased distrust among American troops.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the British strategy shift after French involvement in the war?

    <p>They evacuated Philadelphia to concentrate forces in New York.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which Indian leader allied with the British in hopes of stopping American expansion?

    <p>Joseph Brant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary role of French reinforcements led by Comte de Rochambeau?

    <p>To aid in land battles against the British.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the American navy during the Revolutionary War?

    <p>It focused on destroying British merchant shipping.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What decisive action did Washington take in response to Cornwallis's position?

    <p>Laid a trap by moving his forces to surround Cornwallis.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which countries joined the war against Britain in 1779?

    <p>Spain and Holland.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the reaction of Lord North to the news of Cornwallis's defeat?

    <p>He expressed despair and defeat.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the nature of the treaty offered by France to America in 1778?

    <p>Home rule and recognition of independence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did many Indians support the British during the Revolutionary War?

    <p>They believed British victory would protect their land from American expansion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What prompted Britain to cede so much land to the USA in the Treaty of Paris?

    <p>In hopes of enticing America from its alliance with France</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Loyalists faced little backlash from the American society after the Revolutionary War.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who were the American negotiators at the peace talks in Paris?

    <p>Ben Franklin, John Adams, and John Jay</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Treaty of Paris of 1783 recognized the USA and granted boundaries stretching to the _____ on the west.

    <p>Mississippi</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the individuals with their contributions during the Treaty negotiations:

    <p>Ben Franklin = Negotiator known for his diplomacy John Adams = Advocated for independence and strong terms John Jay = Suspected France would betray American interests Hugh Gaine = Reopened business following the war</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary goal of the Second Continental Congress when it first convened?

    <p>To raise money for an army and navy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    General Richard Montgomery was successful in capturing Quebec.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was tasked with commanding the American army?

    <p>George Washington</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Thomas Paine published __________ in 1776, urging colonists to fight for independence.

    <p>Common Sense</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following events with their outcomes:

    <p>Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge = Victory for the rebels Burning of Falmouth = British aggression Capture of Montreal = General Montgomery's success Assault on Quebec = Failure leading to retreat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the colonists believe they could gain by invading Canada?

    <p>An additional colony and French-Canadian support</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The French-Canadians were enthusiastic supporters of the American forces during the invasion of Canada.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What qualities did George Washington exhibit that made him a suitable leader?

    <p>Patience, courage, self-discipline, and a sense of justice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Thomas Paine argue about the source of power for senators, governors, and judges in a republic?

    <p>Power should come from the consent of the people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Declaration of Independence was fully approved by Congress on July 2, 1776.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the two primary groups of colonials during the War of Independence?

    <p>Patriots and Loyalists</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After crossing the Delaware River, Washington surprised a group of __________ who were resting after their Christmas festivities.

    <p>Hessians</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their definitions:

    <p>Patriots = Supporters of the rebellion against British rule Loyalists = Colonists who remained loyal to the British crown Whigs = Another name for Patriots Tories = Another name for Loyalists</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major reason that Loyalists were less numerous in New England?

    <p>Strength of Presbyterianism and Congregationalism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    General Burgoyne's strategy during his invasion in 1777 was to launch a direct attack on Philadelphia.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was appointed to write the Declaration of Independence?

    <p>Thomas Jefferson</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The British fleet off the coast in July 1776 was composed of around __________ ships.

    <p>500</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which American figure was known for his resistance against British policies and played a significant role in the revolution?

    <p>Samuel Adams</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did France offer America in 1778?

    <p>Treaty of alliance with recognition of independence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cornwallis successfully retreated to Chesapeake Bay without being trapped.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who was the Prussian drill master that trained Washington's troops at Valley Forge?

    <p>Baron von Steuben</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The American navy primarily targeted British __________ shipping during the Revolutionary War.

    <p>merchant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following events with their significance:

    <p>Battle of Saratoga = Turning point in the American Revolution Treaty of Alliance with France = Recognition of American independence Capture of Fort Vincennes = Boosted American morale and control in the West Benedict Arnold's betrayal = Loss of trust among American leaders</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which American general distinguished himself with a strategy of delay during the Carolina campaign?

    <p>Nathanael Greene</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Spanish and Holland entered the war against Britain in 1779.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the reaction of the British Parliament after Cornwallis's defeat?

    <p>Despair, as shown by Lord North's exclamation 'Oh God! It’s all over!'</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In 1784, the __________ signed the Treaty of Fort Stanwix with the United States.

    <p>Iroquois</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the main reasons the British strategy shifted after the battle of Saratoga?

    <p>French alliance with the American forces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    American Revolution: Key Events and Figures

    • Early Stages (1775): 20,000 Minutemen surrounded British forces in Boston, outnumbering them. The Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia in May 1775, aiming for a redress of grievances, not independence. They drafted grievances for Parliament, raised funds for an army and navy, and appointed George Washington commander. Washington, despite minimal prior command experience, radiated leadership qualities and inspired troops; he maintained a careful expense account exceeding $100.

    Invasion of Canada

    • Objective: Colonists aimed to annex Canada as a 14th colony, believing French Canadians would support them due to grievances against British rule.
    • Outcome: Montgomery captured Montreal, and Arnold joined him for the assault on Quebec. Montgomery was killed, and Arnold was wounded; the campaign failed, and troops retreated up the St. Lawrence River.
    • Other Events: Falmouth (Portland, Maine) was burned by the British; Norfolk, Virginia, was burnt, but Boston was evacuated by British forces in March 1776; Southern victories against Loyalist and British forces, including the Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge and Charleston Harbor.

    Thomas Paine and Common Sense

    • Impact: Paine's Common Sense urged Americans to fight for independence.
    • Arguments: Paine argued the absurdity of a smaller Britain controlling a larger America, calling King George III "the Royal Brute of Great Britain."
    • Republicanism: Paine championed a republic governed by consent of the governed, with power vested in the people; his ideas resonated with Americans, although similar concepts already existed, such as town meetings in New England.

    Declaration of Independence

    • Adoption: Congress adopted a resolution for independence on July 2, 1776, officially approved on July 4, 1776, after being influenced by colonists and Richard Henry Lee.
    • Author: Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration, outlining grievances against King George III and justifying American revolt, emphasizing natural rights.

    Patriots and Loyalists

    • Conflict: American Revolution was fought among Americans; Patriots (Whigs) supported independence; Loyalists (Tories) supported the King.
    • Control: British controlled areas with Loyalist support but struggled in Patriot-dominated areas.
    • Diversity: Loyalists were typically conservative, and the conflict divided families, exemplified by differing views of Benjamin Franklin and his son William. Loyalists were more numerous in areas where the Anglican Church held influence; Patriots were concentrated in New England.

    Washington's Challenges (1776)

    • Significant British Force: A large British force, 500 ships and 35,000 men, landed in New York, outnumbering Washington's 18,000 troops.
    • Defeat at Long Island: Washington's forces were routed at the Battle of Long Island.
    • Evading Capture: Washington strategically retreated across the Hudson and Delaware rivers.
    • Trenton and Princeton Victories: Washington's surprise attack on Hessians at Trenton and victory at Princeton demonstrated tactical skill.
    • Howe's Caution: British General Howe's respect for Washington's resilience and previous experience at Bunker Hill likely prevented decisive victory in this early phase.

    Burgoyne's Campaign (1777)

    • Plan: Burgoyne was to sever New England from the colonies through Lake Champlain to Albany; Howe was meant to join from New York.
    • Arnold's Role: Arnold's actions delayed the British advance through Lake Champlain; winter's arrival halted the British' progress.
    • Howe's Deviation: Howe's attack on Philadelphia instead of aiding Burgoyne left the latter vulnerable.
    • Saratoga Surrender: Burgoyne’s troops surrendered at Saratoga.

    Foreign Involvement

    • France: France, seeking revenge against Britain, secretly aided America; officially allied after the Battle of Saratoga in 1778.
    • Further Involvement: Spain and Holland joined the war on America's side; Russia organized a neutral alliance opposing Britain, weakening the British position further.

    Southern Campaign

    • British Strategy: British attempted a "roll-up" strategy from the Southern colonies.
    • Patriot Victories: Despite early losses, Greene's strategy of delaying actions and winning campaigns successfully cleared much of Georgia and South Carolina of British troops; key victories at King's Mountain and Cowpens.
    • Arnold's Treachery: Benedict Arnold attempted to sell West Point to the British in 1780.

    Yorktown and the Final Outcome

    • Cornwallis's Trap: Cornwallis, seeking British naval support, was trapped at Yorktown, Virginia, by combined American, French armies, and a French fleet.
    • Surrender: Cornwallis's surrender in 1781 marked a pivotal turning point leading to the end of the war.

    Treaty of Paris (1783)

    • Terms: Britain recognized American independence, establishing generous boundaries. America gained territory to the Mississippi River, Great Lakes, and Spanish Florida.
    • American Gains: Americans maintained rights to Newfoundland fisheries; retained some confiscated Loyalist lands

    Loyalists

    • Background: Loyalists were primarily conservative, often with strong British ties.
    • Challenges: Loyalists faced difficulties reintegrating into American society after the Revolution, sometimes facing confiscation of their property.
    • Exodus: 50,000 Loyalists allied with the British.
    • Exodus from America: Many Loyalists eventually left America.

    Treaty of Paris (1783): Significance

    • Importance: Britain formally acknowledged American independence and established favorable boundaries.
    • Contingencies: Britain's concessions reflected military vulnerabilities and political shifts, including the importance of French support to the American nation.

    Loyalist Challenges and Reintegration

    • Confiscation: Post-independence, Patriots often confiscated Loyalist property.
    • Reintegration: Loyalists faced difficulty reintegrating into American society.

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    Explore the significant events and influential figures of the American Revolution, focusing on the early stages and the invasion of Canada. This quiz examines the motivations, outcomes, and key players like George Washington and Benedict Arnold. Test your knowledge of this pivotal period in American history.

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