Colonial Grievances
What was the Proclamation of 1763?
King George III of Great Britain declared that the colonists could not move west of the Appalachian Mountains even though they won that land in the French & Indian War
What is the Declaration of Independence?
In 1776 the American Colonies officially declare their independence from Great Britian. Written by Thomas Jefferson, it explained why the colonies were breaking away — inspired by John Locke’s ideas of natural rights (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness).
Define "grievance"
A complaint (specifically complaints the American Colonists had against Great Britian)
What were the Articles of Confederation?
The first form of government in America
What did the Writs of Assistance allow British soldiers to do?
Allowed British soldiers to search ANY location for smuggled goods without cause, evidence, or a warrant
Which battles are known as "the shot heard 'round the world"?
Lexington & Concord
To amend means to change or update something (specifically the Consitution)
This group of people opposed the Constitution and demanded that a Bill of Rights be added to protect the people.
Anti-federalists
What was the CAUSE of the Sugar Act, Stamp Act, and Townshend Act? (Hint: these all have to do with raising taxes)
War debt accumulated by Great Britian in the French & Indian War.
In which battle did Great Britain surrender (officially ending the American Revolution/ Revolutionary war)
The Battle of Yorktown
Define "Ratify"
Ratify means to approve of something (generally very formal)
Explain the 3/5ths Compromise
This compromise settled how to count slaves towards a states' population in terms of representation in government. Each slave counts as 3/5 of a person or every 5 slaves count as 3 people
List the 5 protections of the FIRST amendment.
Freedom of Speech, Religion, Press, Assembly, and Petition (the government)
What was the Declaratory Act?
King George declares that he can impose any laws or taxes on the American Colonies "in all cases whatsoever" despite their protests of "No taxation without representation".
What happened at the Winter at Valley Forge?
Harsh winter training camp — Washington’s leadership held troops together.
Define "mercantilism"
An economic system where the more money a nation has the more powerful they are considered
List at least 2 weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
All 13 states had to agree to amend the AOC, Federal Government could not pass taxes, no national court system, President has VERY little power, 9/13 states had to agree to approve national laws
What was the Third amendment created in response to?
The Quartering Act (part of the coercive/ intolerable acts)
What were the Intolerable Acts (aka Coercive Acts) created in response to?
The Boston Tea Party
Which battle was considered the '"turning point" of the American Revolution AND why?
The Battle of Saratoga because after this battle France joined the war on behalf of America
Define "Bicameral Legislature"
Two house (or chamber) legislature such as Congress in the United States (divided into House of Representatives and Senate)
What did the Great Compromise establish?
The Great Compromise established our Bicameral Legislature splitting the Congress into two houses; the House of Representatives and the Senate
Due process ensures fair treatment once you've been arrested/ in the court (Judicial system) such as the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a trial, etc.