Discuss the Major Events of the American Struggle for Independence

Q.8 Discuss the Major Events of the American Struggle for Independence

Ans. Major Events of the American Struggle for Independence

1. Suspension of New York Legislative Assembly (June 1767)
2. The British suspended the New York Legislative Assembly because it failed to provide lodging and boarding for British soldiers.
3. This led to tensions, culminating in the Boston Massacre (March 5, 1770), where British soldiers killed three civilians.
4. As a result, the British government abolished the Townshend taxes, except for the tax on tea.
5. Boston Tea Party (December 16, 1773)
6. The British East India Company faced an economic crisis and was granted a monopoly on tea sales in America to prevent bankruptcy.
7. The Boston Tea Party was organized by Samuel Adams and his followers, where 50 disguised individuals threw tea chests into the sea to protest against British policies.
8. In response, King George III passed the Coercive Acts (Intolerable Acts), which included:
9. Closure of Boston Port until compensation was paid.
10. Mandatory lodging and boarding of British troops by locals.
11. Freedom of worship for Catholics.
12. Trials for murder and criminal cases to be held in England or other colonies.
13. The right to elect Massachusetts’ representatives was given to the British King.
14. First Continental Congress (September 5, 1774)
15. Representatives from 12 colonies (except Georgia) met to discuss the crisis and persuade Britain to accept their demands.
16. Leaders like George Washington, John Adams, and others participated.
17. Lexington Massacre (April 19, 1775)
18. British troops arrested John Hancock and Samuel Adams, triggering an armed clash.
19. 8 American volunteers were killed at Lexington, but in retaliation, American militia killed British soldiers at Concord.
20. Second Continental Congress (May 10, 1775)
21. Held in Philadelphia, presided over by John Hancock.
22. Decided to break ties with England and appointed George Washington as the commander of the Continental Army (June 15, 1775).
23. Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776)
24. Richard Henry Lee proposed independence, supported by John Adams.
25. A committee of five drafted the Declaration of Independence:
26. Thomas Jefferson (main author), Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston.
27. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress approved the proposal, and on July 4, 1776, the United States declared independence.

Source: RBSE 11th Class: World History

Keywords: New York Legislative Assembly, Boston Tea Party  , First Continental Congress , Lexington Massacre , Second Continental Congress , Declaration of Independence

Extra Info:  Important Victories Battle of Trenton (1776 A.D.) – Washington defeated the British army.Battle of Saratoga (1777 A.D.) – England faced defeat, which led France and Spain to support America.Battle of Yorktown (1781 A.D.) –With French support, Washington and Roshambi forced British Commander Cornwallis to surrender.American volunteers played a key role, but external help was also crucial.British General Howe sympathized with Americans and avoided actions that could have ended the war in England’s favor.France provided military support, including trained commander Lafayette, warships, and ordnance.Spain and Holland also sent warships to support America.