The American Revolution

What were the Colonists Thinking?

Second Continental Congress

•May, 1775•Meet in Philadelphia•Delegates split between independence and reconciliation with Britain•Debates rage on into June•Started acting like a government•All agree that they must prepare for war

–Recognizes Continental Army–George Washington appointed as commander of army–Printed paper money to pay for war

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The Olive Branch Petition

• Made by the Second Continental Congress and sent to King George III

• Done after Lexington and Concord• Stated:

– Colonists were loyal to king– Asked king to stop all the fighting– Asked king to settle all disputes peacefully

• King did not respond • Declared the colonists “in…..open rebellion”• Parliament sent 20,000 soldiers to put down

revolt

Patriots vs. Loyalists

• Colonists who favor independence

• Those who fought and supported the Continental Army

• Took control of local governments

• Were a majority

• Colonists who remain loyal to Britain

• Fought for the British• Some were from very

wealthy families or government officials

• Feared losing their property and place in society

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Revolution or CompromiseYour Assignment

Due Tuesday

Newspaper ArticleFrom the information you have on the events of colonial history that led to the American Revolution, the synopsis given to you on the colonial Patriots and Loyalists, the movie, and your outline, write a newspaper article expressing your point of view on revolting against the British government or compromising with the British government

Letter to a FriendFrom the information you have on the events of colonial history that led to the American Revolution, the synopsis given to you on the colonial Patriots and Loyalists, the movie, and your outline, write a letter to a friend expressing your point of view on revolting against the British government or compromising with the British government