Road to Revolution
What major event occurred on July 4, 1776?
The Declaration of Independence was unanimously adopted
What was the significance of the Treaty of Paris (1783)?
It officially ended the Revolutionary War and recognized American independence
Why did the Articles of Confederation create a weak national government?
Fear of a strong national government like Britain’s monarchy
What are the first ten amendments called?
The Bill of Rights
What does the Second Amendment protect?
The right to own and carry weapons
What was the Olive Branch Petition?
A final attempt by the colonies to avoid war with Britain
What territory was granted to the U.S. in the Treaty of Paris (1783)?
Land east of the Mississippi River
What was required to amend the Articles?
Unanimous consent of all 13 states
Who supported the Constitution and a strong central government?
Federalists
What Revolutionary-era role did Jefferson have?
Drafting the Declaration of Independence
How did King George III respond to the Olive Branch Petition?
He declared the colonies in rebellion and called members of Congress traitors
What was one advantage the Patriots had over the British?
Greater support among colonists and knowledge of the terrain
What was a success of the Articles?
Negotiating the Treaty of Paris and passing the Northwest Ordinance
What is the main purpose of the U.S. Constitution?
To describe the structure and powers of government and protect citizens’ rights
What was a lasting achievement of Thomas Jefferson as president?
The Louisiana Purchase
What impact did Thomas Paine’s Common Sense have on the colonies?
It strengthened support for independence by arguing for self-government
Who were the “Hessians”?
German soldiers hired by the British
How did Shays’ Rebellion show the Articles’ weakness?
Congress couldn’t raise a national army to stop uprisings
What is the “supremacy clause”?
The Constitution and federal laws are the highest law of the land
What precedent did George Washington set as president?
Serving only two terms and giving a Farewell Address
What was the purpose of the Second Continental Congress in May 1775?
To organize the colonies’ defense and act as a national government
What happened to many Loyalists after the war?
Many left for British territories like Canada or Britain
What power was not granted to the national government under the Articles?
Collect taxes
What was the Great Compromise?
A plan that created a two-house Congress for state representation
What is Alexander Hamilton remembered for?
Helping establish the U.S. financial system and Coast Guard