The Declaration of Independence

Ticonderoga

An old British fort was a valuable resource for the colonists in the area of providing heavy weapons and gunpowder.

Continental Army

Army formed in 1775 by the Second Continental Congress and led by General George Washington.

According to the Declaration, what is the purpose of the government?

The purpose of the government is supposedly for securing and protecting the people of America's rights.

Declaration of Independence

This document secured the rights for the colonists in America, allowing everyone to have the same rights since "they were born equal" and that they had many reasons to be free from the British.

Bunker Hill

Bunker Hill was one of the two hills that loomed over the city Boston. On June 16, people were led up Breed's Hill, and there, a deadly battle ensued, killing 1000s of of the British troops and half that many colonists. This was misnamed as the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Thomas Jefferson

He was 33 years old when he wrote the Declaration of Independence.

King George

He was the King of England during the American Revolution and he was called a tyrant for imposing taxes unfairly and refusing simple rights for the colonists.

Olive Branch Petition

In July of 1775, the colonists sent a petition to King George III, asking him to end the fight peacefully.

Why was it important to the development of American democracy?

It allowed people to be happy while everything was fair. They could also have a Democratic government with the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

George Washington

John Adams chose this man to lead the Continental Army as the commander in chief. He was unanimously elected by the Continental Congress because of his talents and skills that helped the colonists, in the end, win freedom and independence.

Who said "Give me liberty, or give me death!" and what did it mean for the Patriots? To Loyalists?

Patrick Henry said this. It meant that the Patriots were willing to fight for their freedom and they wanted to unite as a country, instead of as seperate colnies.

What political philosophy is expressed by the Declaration of Independence?

The political philosophy of having freedom and being able to alter or abolish the government if they are not helpful. The government also has to protect and secure the citizens' rights