1) The Stamp Act: The Stamp Act was one of the major causes of the American Revolution. It was an act passed by the British Parliament in 1765, which required the American colonies to pay a tax on every piece of printed paper they used. This included legal documents, newspapers, and even playing cards. The colonies saw this as a direct violation of their rights as British subjects, as they were being taxed without their consent and without representation in the Parliament. This led to widespread protests and the formation of organizations such as the Sons of Liberty, who actively resisted the Act. The Stamp Act was eventually repealed in 1766, but it set a precedent of the British government trying to exert control over the colonies and sparked a sense of unity and resistance among the colonists.
2) Lack of representation in Parliament: Another major cause of the American Revolution was the lack of representation of the American colonies in the British Parliament. The colonists felt that they were being taxed and regulated by a government in which they had no say. They believed in the concept of "no taxation without representation," arguing that since they did not have any representatives in the Parliament, they should not be subjected to taxes imposed by it. The colonies had their own legislative bodies, such as colonial assemblies, but these had limited powers and were often overruled by decisions made in the Parliament. This lack of representation and participation in the decision-making process eroded the trust between the colonists and the British government, fueling the desire for independence and self-governance.
Select TWO of the following issues. How was each issue a cause of the American Revolution? Proclamation of 1763 The Stamp Act Lack of representation in Parliament British economic policies following the French and Indian War Think about the question carefully. Give examples to support your answer. (4 points)
1 answer