chapter two section two. the birth of a democratic nation

Chapter Two Section TwoChapter Two Section Two

““The Birth of a Democratic Nation”The Birth of a Democratic Nation”

American Ideas vs. American Ideas vs. British ControlBritish Control

For almost 100 years, American colonial governments enjoyed relative “self -government” from Britain.

In 1760, King George III takes the throne and demands more control over America

King George III King George III (1760 – 1820)(1760 – 1820)

““French & Indian War”French & Indian War”

““French & Indian War”French & Indian War” The “French &

Indian War” (1754-1763) made things worse.

The war was extremely expensive for the British government, leading to increased taxes in America.””

““No Taxation Without No Taxation Without Representation”Representation”

American colonists resented these new taxes by the British.

Since they had no representation in the British Parliament, they felt they should not have to pay taxes.

““No Taxation Without No Taxation Without Representation”Representation”

Today, citizens of Washington DC do NOT have voting representation in the U.S. Congress.

Is this the same thing as it was in 1765?

““Boston Tea Party”Boston Tea Party”

First Continental CongressFirst Continental Congress

(1774)(1774)

King George’s ResponseKing George’s Response

Second Continental CongressSecond Continental Congress

(1775)(1775)

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

Independence – self reliance and freedom from outside control.

Written by Thomas Jefferson

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

Part I: Preamble This explains why the

Continental Congress drew up this declaration.

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

Part II: Declaration of Natural Rights

This lists the rights of the citizens, explaining that in a “republic”, the people form the government to protect their rights.

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

Part III: List of Grievances

This lists the colonists’ complaints against the British government (singling out King George for the blame).

““Declaration of Independence”Declaration of Independence”

Part IV: Resolution of Independence

This declares that the colonies are “Free and Independent States” with full power to make war, form alliances, and trade with others.

Uncertain Future??Uncertain Future??

Uncertain Future??Uncertain Future??

Benjamin Franklin’s drawing from the 1750’s.

Franklin stressed that the colonies must be united if they are to prevail against Great Britain.