Lecture Notes: The American Revolution - Key Events from 1765 to 1776

Introduction

• Topic: Early American Revolutionary history focusing on events between 1765-1776.
• Highlight: Boston, 1765, marked a beginning of escalating tensions leading to the American War of Independence.

Prelude to Revolution - 1765

Thomas Hutchinson and the Stamp Act

• Thomas Hutchinson: Held posts of Chief Justice and Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts as appointed by the King.
• Stamp Act of 1765: A tax requiring colonies to purchase stamps for printed materials. Incited resistance because taxes were imposed by a distant Parliament with no colonial representation.
• Mob Action: Hutchinson’s enforcement of the Stamp Act led to violent protests, attacking officials and properties.

Colonial Resistance

• Sons of Liberty: Secret group using tactics like intimidation and destruction to resist the Stamp Act.
• Key Figures: John Adams influenced with logical arguments and legal resolutions; Patrick Henry spurred radical sentiment with the Virginia Resolves against taxation without representation.

Repeal of the Stamp Act

• Economic Impact: Boycotts reduced British profits, pressuring Parliament to repeal the Stamp Act in March 1766. However, new taxes would follow.
• British Response: Continued to assert authority by implementing new taxes and sending military regiments to enforce laws.

Escalation and Conflict - 1770 to 1773

Boston Massacre (1770)

• Incident: Clashes between colonists and British soldiers resulted in the deaths of five civilians, including Crispus Attucks, an African American man viewed as the first martyr of the Revolution.
• John Adams: Defended the British soldiers in their trial, emphasizing the right to a fair trial despite his Patriot stance.

Colonial Unity

• Benjamin Franklin: Had a significant role in mediating between colonies and Britain but became a revolutionary after being disgraced publicly in London.
• Boston Tea Party (1773): Sons of Liberty dumped tea into Boston Harbor as a revolt against the Tea Act.
• Britain’s Response: Harsh measures known as the Intolerable Acts, aimed at punishing Massachusetts and deterring further rebellion.

Path to War - 1774 to 1775

First Continental Congress (1774)

• Purpose: Addressed the Intolerable Acts and unified colonial resistance, leading to a boycott of British goods.
• Key Delegates: John Adams, John Hancock, Patrick Henry, and George Washington.
• Militia Mobilization: Ordered local militias to arm and be ready.

Battles of Lexington and Concord (April 1775)

• Start of Armed Conflict: Marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War with initial battles at Lexington and Concord, resulting in the Siege of Boston.
• General Gage: Attempted to control the rebellion but was overwhelmed by American militia forces.

Washington’s Command

• Appointment of George Washington: Became Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, taking over a poorly organized force.
• Fort Ticonderoga: Captured by Benedict Arnold and Ethan Allen, providing crucial artillery for the Patriots.
• Battle of Bunker Hill (June 1775): Costly for the British, though technically a victory; showcased American resilience and determination.

Defining Moments - 1776

Siege and Fortifications

• Knox’s Expedition: Brought artillery from Ticonderoga to fortify positions around Boston leading to British evacuation in March 1776.
• Washington’s Strategy: Relied on artillery and strategic positioning; avoided direct engagement until conditions were favorable.

Declaration of Independence (July 1776)

• Drafted by Thomas Jefferson: Signed on July 4th, asserting the colonies' right to independence from British rule. Faced internal conflicts over slavery but focused on unifying for the cause.
• Impact: Unified the colonies with a clear, shared objective of independence.

Battle of New York (August 1776)

• British Invasion: Led by General William Howe with overwhelming force. Initial defeats for Washington’s forces leading to retreats and significant losses.
• Continental Challenges: Retreat across New Jersey; questioned Washington’s leadership; internal conspiracies led by Charles Lee.

Turning the Tide: Trenton (December 1776)

• Surprise Attack: Washington’s daring night crossing of the Delaware River and successful attack on Hessian forces at Trenton revitalized the Continental Army and revolutionary cause.
• Re-enlistments: Washington succeeded in extending soldiers' commissions by offering additional pay, maintaining army cohesion.

Conclusion

• 1776 Summary: Despite early setbacks and challenges, decisive actions like the Trenton attack and strategic leadership of George Washington set the stage for the continuation and eventual success of the American Revolution.