Colonial Independence Motivations
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Colonial Independence Motivations
History briefing: Why did colonists want change?
By the 1760s, Great Britain controlled thirteen colonies in North America. After a costly war, Parliament placed taxes on some goods and documents, including tea and printed papers. Many colonists objected because they had no elected representatives in Parliament. They argued, “No taxation without representation.” Other disagreements grew. Britain limited some colonial trade, and many colonists disliked having British soldiers stationed among them. In 1774, delegates from several colonies met to discuss their concerns. Fighting began in 1775. On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence. It explained why the colonies were separating from Britain and claimed that people had rights, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Not every colonist agreed. Some remained loyal to Britain, while others supported independence. People could make this choice for different reasons, and the conflict affected families and communities throughout the colonies.
Investigate the complaints
Use the briefing to decide which concerns were about government, money, or both.
- They wanted taxes to be collected only by the colonies.
- They objected to paying taxes set by a Parliament where they had no elected representatives.
- They believed all printed papers should be free.
- explain why the colonies were separating from Great Britain.
- ask Parliament to choose colonial representatives.
- announce that the colonies would trade only with France.
Weigh the reasons
Historians consider evidence and recognize that people in the past did not all think alike.
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