Apush Unit 2 Study Guide

APUSH Unit 2 Study Guide: From Colonies to Revolution

This comprehensive APUSH Unit 2 study guide covers the pivotal period in American history leading up to the Revolutionary War. We'll delve into the significant events, key figures, and underlying causes that shaped the colonies' transition from relative peace under British rule to outright rebellion. Mastering this unit is crucial for success on the AP US History exam, so let's dive in!

I. Introduction: Setting the Stage for Revolution

Unit 2 of AP US History typically focuses on the period from the 1700s, covering the increasing tensions between Great Britain and its thirteen American colonies. This era witnessed a shift from mercantilism and salutary neglect to a growing sense of colonial identity and ultimately, the fight for independence. Understanding the context of this era—the Enlightenment ideals, the growth of colonial economies and populations, and the evolving relationship with Great Britain—is key to unlocking the events that followed. This section serves as your foundation for understanding the complex factors that culminated in the American Revolution.

II. The Seeds of Discontent: Mercantilism and Growing Tensions

• Mercantilism: This economic system, where the colonies existed to benefit the mother country (Great Britain), was a major source of tension. Great Britain implemented various acts, such as the Navigation Acts, restricting colonial trade and forcing them to rely on British goods. This created resentment among colonists who felt unfairly constrained.

• Salutary Neglect: The period of salutary neglect, where Great Britain largely ignored colonial affairs, allowed the colonies to develop their own governing systems and economies relatively independently. However, this changed drastically following the French and Indian War.

• French and Indian War (Seven Years' War): This costly war, fought between Great Britain and France for control of North America, significantly altered the relationship between Britain and its colonies. The war's outcome – a British victory – led to increased British control over the colonies, including the imposition of new taxes and regulations.

• Proclamation of 1763: Issued by King George III, this proclamation forbade colonial settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains, angering colonists who desired westward expansion and access to land. This fueled resentment as colonists felt their expansion was being unfairly restricted.

III. The Road to Revolution: Key Acts and Colonial Responses

The period following the French and Indian War saw a dramatic escalation of tensions. Great Britain, burdened by war debts, sought to tax the colonies to recoup its expenses. This led to a series of acts that inflamed colonial passions and solidified resistance.

• The Stamp Act (1765): This act imposed a tax on all printed materials, including newspapers, legal documents, and playing cards. It was met with widespread protests, including boycotts and the formation of the Sons of Liberty, a radical group that organized resistance. The cry of "No taxation without representation" became a rallying cry.

• The Townshend Acts (1767): These acts imposed taxes on imported goods such as tea, glass, and paper. These acts further fueled colonial opposition, leading to renewed boycotts and protests.

• The Boston Massacre (1770): A clash between British soldiers and Boston colonists resulted in the death of five colonists. This event became a powerful symbol of British oppression and fueled anti-British sentiment. Paul Revere’s engraving of the event further inflamed public opinion.

• The Tea Act (1773): While seemingly beneficial to the colonists by lowering the price of tea, this act was seen as a sneaky attempt to undermine the colonial boycott of British tea and reaffirm British control. This led to the Boston Tea Party, a pivotal event where colonists dumped chests of tea into Boston Harbor.

• The Intolerable Acts (1774): These punitive acts were passed by Parliament in response to the Boston Tea Party. They included the closing of Boston Harbor, the quartering of British troops in colonial homes, and restrictions on colonial self-governance. These acts pushed the colonies closer to open rebellion.

IV. The First Continental Congress and Growing Divisions

In response to the Intolerable Acts, representatives from twelve of the thirteen colonies met in Philadelphia in 1774 for the First Continental Congress. This marked a significant step toward unity and collective action against British rule. The Congress issued a Declaration of Rights and Grievances, outlining colonial complaints and demands for redress.

• The Olive Branch Petition: Even as tensions rose, the Continental Congress attempted a peaceful resolution. They sent the Olive Branch Petition to King George III, expressing their loyalty to the Crown while protesting against British policies. However, the petition was rejected.

• The Second Continental Congress (1775): With armed conflict already underway (Lexington and Concord), the Second Continental Congress assumed the role of a provisional government, organizing the Continental Army, issuing money, and ultimately declaring independence. This body proved crucial in the transition from protest to revolution.

V. The Road to Independence: Key Events and Figures

The period between the First and Second Continental Congress saw the escalation of armed conflict, solidifying the divide between the colonies and Great Britain.

• Battles of Lexington and Concord (1775): These battles marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War, with the "shot heard 'round the world" symbolizing the start of the armed struggle for independence.

• The Siege of Boston (1775): This prolonged standoff demonstrated the colonists' growing military capabilities.

• Bunker Hill (1775): While a tactical British victory, the battle at Bunker Hill highlighted the colonists' resilience and determination, despite suffering significant casualties.

• Common Sense (1776): Thomas Paine's influential pamphlet, Common Sense, powerfully articulated the arguments for independence, significantly swaying public opinion towards separation from Britain. It offered a clear and concise argument for republicanism.

• Declaration of Independence (1776): Written primarily by Thomas Jefferson, this document formally declared the independence of the thirteen colonies from Great Britain. It outlined the philosophical principles of the revolution, citing natural rights and grievances against King George III.

VI. Key Figures and Their Roles

Understanding the contributions of various figures is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of this period.

• George Washington: Commander of the Continental Army, Washington's leadership and determination were vital in maintaining morale and ultimately securing victory.

• Thomas Jefferson: Primary author of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson articulated the philosophical principles underlying the revolution.

• Benjamin Franklin: A diplomat and statesman, Franklin played a key role in securing foreign alliances, particularly with France.

• John Adams: A key figure in the Continental Congress, Adams played a vital role in shaping the early years of the republic.

• Samuel Adams: A radical patriot and key figure in the Sons of Liberty, Adams played a pivotal role in mobilizing colonial resistance.

• Patrick Henry: Known for his fiery speeches, including his famous "Give me liberty or give me death!" address, Henry inspired colonial resistance.

VII. The Enlightenment's Influence

The Enlightenment, a philosophical movement emphasizing reason and individual rights, profoundly influenced the American Revolution.

• John Locke's ideas on natural rights: Locke's concept of natural rights—life, liberty, and property—provided a strong philosophical foundation for the colonists' arguments against British rule.

• Montesquieu's ideas on separation of powers: Montesquieu's ideas on the separation of powers greatly influenced the structure of the American government.

• Influence of republicanism: The colonists' embrace of republican ideals, emphasizing civic virtue and self-governance, fueled their desire for independence and shaped the early American republic.

VIII. Military Strategies and Turning Points

The American Revolutionary War was not a simple struggle. The British possessed a far superior military, necessitating innovative strategies from the Americans.

• British military strategy: The British initially employed a strategy of concentrating forces in key colonial cities.

• American military strategy: The Americans adopted a strategy of guerilla warfare, utilizing their knowledge of the terrain and relying on hit-and-run tactics to offset the British advantage.

• Key battles and their significance: Understanding the outcomes and significance of key battles like Saratoga, Yorktown, and Trenton is crucial. Saratoga, for instance, secured vital French support.

• Foreign alliances: The alliance with France proved crucial in securing victory, providing much-needed financial and military aid.

IX. Conclusion: Legacy of the Revolution

The American Revolution had profound and lasting consequences, shaping the course of American history and influencing global politics.

• Establishment of a new nation: The success of the revolution led to the establishment of the United States of America, a new nation based on the principles of self-governance and republicanism.

• Impact on global politics: The American Revolution inspired other movements for independence and self-determination around the world.

• Ongoing debates about liberty and equality: The ideals of liberty and equality, central to the revolution, continue to be debated and reinterpreted in American society.

X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What were the major causes of the American Revolution? The major causes included mercantilist policies, taxation without representation, restrictions on colonial expansion, and the growing sense of colonial identity and self-governance.

• Who were the main figures involved in the American Revolution? Key figures included George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Samuel Adams, and Patrick Henry.

• What were the major turning points of the war? Significant turning points included the Battles of Lexington and Concord, Saratoga, and Yorktown.

• What was the significance of the Declaration of Independence? The Declaration formally declared independence from Great Britain, outlining the philosophical principles of the revolution and justifying the colonists' actions.

• How did the Enlightenment influence the American Revolution? Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke and Montesquieu profoundly influenced the colonists' ideas about natural rights, self-governance, and the structure of government.

• What was the impact of foreign alliances on the outcome of the war? The alliance with France was crucial in securing American victory, providing much-needed financial and military support.

This comprehensive study guide provides a solid foundation for understanding APUSH Unit 2. Remember to delve deeper into specific events and figures using your textbook and other supplementary resources. Good luck with your studies! Remember to utilize practice questions and past AP exams to solidify your knowledge and prepare for the exam effectively. Consistent review and active recall techniques are key to mastering this crucial unit in AP US History.