American Revolution Overview

The Intolerable Acts and the American Response

• The Intolerable Acts were passed by Parliament in 1774, escalating tensions between the American colonies and Great Britain.
• The Acts were seen as punitive measures aimed at punishing the colonies for the Boston Tea Party and other acts of defiance.
• By 1776, many Americans concluded that severing ties with Britain was the only solution to their grievances.

The First Continental Congress

• Convened in September 1774 in Philadelphia, attended by delegates from all colonies except Georgia.
• Aimed to address British infringements on colonial liberties rather than seeking full independence initially.
• Delegates sought to restore the relationship with Britain to what it had been before the Seven Years' War.

The Delegates of the First Continental Congress

• Delegates represented a wide spectrum of political views: radical, moderate, and conservative.
• Key radicals included:
  • Patrick Henry (Virginia) - voiced strong opposition to British rule.
  • Samuel Adams (Massachusetts) - a fervent advocate for colonial rights.
  • John Adams (Massachusetts) - supported strong measures against British oppression.
• Moderates included:
  • George Washington (Virginia) - sought a balanced approach and wary of conflict.
  • John Dickinson (Pennsylvania) - pushed for reconciliation with Britain.
• Conservative voices included:
  • John Jay (New York) - favored a restrained response to British actions.
  • Joseph Galloway (Pennsylvania) - supported a measure of loyalty to the crown.
• Loyalists were not represented at the Congress, indicating a growing divide in colonial stance against British authority.

Explore the key events and figures of the American Revolution and the Confederation period from 1774 to 1787. This quiz delves into crucial moments, such as the passage of the Intolerable Acts and influential writings like Thomas Paine's 'Common Sense.' Test your knowledge on the foundations of American independence.