NYSED Global History and Geography Online Resource Guide: Turningpoints

Images

Previous

Industrial Revolution

Next

French Revolution

During the colonial period, but after the French and Indian War, Americans perceived themselves as having grievances against Great Britain that included mercantilist restrictions on trade, high taxes, and despite the existence of the House of Burgesses and town meetings, the colonist felt that they had only limited opportunities for self - government. The philosophical foundation of the American Revolution was based on English constitutional law and Enlightenment philosophies that emphasized that governments were founded to protect life, liberty and property, and that the people had the right to rebel when the monarch violated these natural rights. The colonies revolted and created a new political system. The new government guaranteed basic freedoms and extended political rights to most adult white males. The new government did not reject slavery, nor did it extend legal and political rights to women. Property holding was widespread, the class structure was fluid, and economic expansion ensured that common people benefited from independence. The American Revolution impacted subsequent revolutions in Europe and Latin America.

Video Clips

You may need Real Player to View

Additional Resources:

Conflict

Unit:

Standards:

History of the United States and New York

Civics,
Citizenship, and Government

Related Turning Points:

Related Topics:

	French Revolution

	Latin American Independence Movements

Enlightenment
Puritan Revolution
Glorious Revolution
Mercantilism

© 2008 NYSED