Social Studies - United States History I
Lesson Plans

U.S. I Strand 3: THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

(Ca. 1754-1787)

Enlightened ideas from both sides of the Atlantic, coupled with world events and British policies, led many to question the common sense of the relationship between the American colonies and Britain. Over time, many colonists who had viewed themselves as loyal subjects of the king began to support an independence movement that would result in war, the formation of the United States of America, and the ratification of a unique Constitution. The contributions of Adams, Jefferson, Washington, Hamilton, Madison, and other Founding Fathers, as well as those of men and women of all social classes and conditions, were vital in achieving independence and creating a new nation.

Possible Guiding Questions to Consider:

• What defines a political movement as a revolution?
• Are there specific conditions that are necessary in order for political revolutions to occur?
• What were the important political philosophies used to justify the American Revolution and advance the cause of liberty?
• How does the Declaration of Independence make a case for a new nation?
• What role did propaganda play in promoting the patriot cause?
• How do some events, like the winter at Valley Forge and Washington crossing the Delaware, become major parts of the narrative of history when other events, like Morristown and Washington crossing the East River, do not?
• What led some colonists to become patriots, others to become loyalists, and some to remain neutral?
• What is American exceptionalism, and in what ways has it shaped how Americans see themselves?

U.S. I Standard 3.1:

Students will use primary sources to identify the significant events, ideas, people, and methods used to justify or resist the Revolutionary movement.

• Background on the Patriot Attitude Toward the Monarchy
  Understanding the Patriot attitude toward the British monarchy is helpful in understanding the Founders' reluctance to have a strong executive under the Articles of Confederation as well as their desire to build in checks of executive power under the Constitution.

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