The American Revolution
What triggered the American Revolution from the point of view of reaching “Liberty” from an ideological perspective? What Philosophers and intellectuals did the American Forefathers call upon or cite during the period that challenged the British Empire in North America?
Illustrate the major critical events that led to the American Revolution. What was the response by both sides to violence, attacks, and threats? What were the legacies and consequences of the “Radicals” such as the “Sons of Liberty”? What do you believe was the height of the colonial crisis and what ultimately ended it?
Sample Answer
The American Revolution was a complex event with many causes, but one of the most important was the colonists’ desire for liberty. The colonists had been inspired by the ideas of Enlightenment philosophers such as John Locke, who argued that all people have the natural rights to life, liberty, and property. They also believed that they had a right to self-government, and they were increasingly frustrated by the British government’s attempts to control their lives.
Some of the key philosophers and intellectuals who influenced the American Revolution include:
- John Locke (1632-1704): Locke was an English philosopher who argued that all people have the natural rights to life, liberty, and property. His ideas were very influential in the American Revolution, and they are still cited today by those who believe in individual liberty.
- Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679): Hobbes was an English philosopher who argued that people are naturally selfish and that the only way to prevent chaos is to have a strong government. His ideas were not as influential in the American Revolution as Locke’s, but they did help to shape the debate about the role of government.
- Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778): Rousseau was a Swiss philosopher who argued that people are naturally good and that the only way to corrupt them is to subject them to a government. His ideas were very influential in the American Revolution, and they are still cited today by those who believe in the importance of individual freedom.