Lecture Notes on American Revolutionary War

Introduction

• Christopher Columbus thought he could reach India by sailing west but discovered a new continent.
• Gold was abundant in the new continent, which led to European colonization conflicts.

Colonial Conflicts

• English and French claimed the same territories, leading to skirmishes.
• George Washington's early military experience against the French.

British Debt and Colonial Taxation

• Britain's victory over France left them in debt and led to taxing the American colonies.
• Sugar Act (1764): Tax on sugar and molasses imports from non-British sources.
• Stamp Act (1765): Required tax stamps on documents, led to widespread colonial protest.
• British repealed Stamp Act but asserted control with a declaration.

Tensions Escalate

• Townshend Acts imposed taxes on imports like glass, lead, and tea, causing boycotts.
• Boston Massacre (1770): Clash leading to deaths, increasing anti-British sentiment.
• Boston Tea Party (1773): Protest against tea tax by dumping tea into Boston Harbor.

First Continental Congress

• Response to British actions: delegates met in Philadelphia from 12 colonies.
• Key figures included John Adams, George Washington, and others.

Outbreak of Revolutionary War

• British troops sent to seize rebel arms led to battles at Lexington and Concord (1775).
• "Shot heard around the world" marked the start of war.
• Patriots used guerrilla tactics, significant early battles at Bunker Hill.

Key Military Campaigns and Battles

• Washington's strategic retreats and surprise victories, such as crossing the Delaware.
• British strategy shifts to the South, capturing Charleston.

Foreign Involvement

• French Alliance (1778): Provided naval support and resources.
• Spanish and Dutch also provided aid against the British.

The Turning Point

• Victory at Saratoga convinced the French to join the American cause.
• Training under von Steuben improved Continental Army's effectiveness.

The Southern Campaign

• British shifted focus to Southern colonies, faced resistance from leaders like Nathaniel Greene.
• British suffered major defeat at Yorktown (1781), leading to peace negotiations.

Conclusion of War

• Treaty of Paris (1783): Ended war, recognizing American independence.
• Washington retired but was persuaded to become the first U.S. President.

Establishing the New Nation

• Washington set precedents for presidency, including neutrality and voluntary two-term limit.
• Helped shape a democratic system with checks and balances.

Post-War Reflection

• The war set the stage for future American issues, including deep-seated regional differences.

These notes summarize the key events and figures of the American Revolutionary War, highlighting the causes, major battles, foreign involvement, and the post-war impact on the United States.