Review the Hexagonal Thinking: Colonial Society & Revolution diagram in Step 1 of this question and locate the graphic pointing to "Connection #3 - 1783 Treaty of Paris". For this pair of connected hexagons, describe the connection between them. In 5-7 sentences, explain how 1783 Treaty of Paris relates to the Declaration of Independence. Is it a cause-and-effect relationship? Are they part of the same historical event or process? Do they share common characteristics or themes? Refer back to specific events, individuals, or historical developments to support your explanation.

Answer 1

The 1783 Treaty of Paris and the Declaration of Independence are intrinsically connected as they both represent significant milestones in the American quest for sovereignty and self-determination. The Declaration of Independence, adopted in 1776, was a bold proclamation asserting the colonies' desire to break free from British rule, articulating fundamental principles of liberty and the right to self-govern. This document set the ideological foundation for the Revolutionary War that subsequently ensued.

The Treaty of Paris in 1783 marked the formal conclusion of that war, recognizing the independence of the United States and establishing its borders. Thus, while the Declaration served as the catalyst for revolution, the Treaty of Paris represented the tangible achievement of that goal. They do not share a direct cause-and-effect relationship, but rather, they are sequential steps in the same historical process where one event led to the necessity of the other. The themes of struggle for liberty, governance, and national identity prevalent in both documents underscore a consistent narrative driving the American Revolution. Key figures such as Thomas Jefferson, who penned the Declaration, and Benjamin Franklin, who played a significant role in negotiating the Treaty, are illustrative of the interconnectedness of ideas and actions that characterized this transformative period in American history.