Write an account of one of the following: (i) The causes of the American War of Independence - Junior Cycle History - Question C - 2018

The American War of Independence was driven by several key causes:

Enlightenment Ideas

The movement was heavily inspired by Enlightenment philosophies that emphasized freedom, democracy, and individual rights. Thinkers like John Locke had a profound influence, arguing that governments should protect the rights of the governed.

Unfair System of Taxation

Colonists objected to the British Parliament's imposition of taxes without representation. The slogan "No taxation without representation" captured the sentiment of the time, as the colonies felt entitled to have a say in the laws that affected them.

Lack of Representation

The colonists were frustrated by their lack of representation in the British Parliament, which sought to control and legislate for the colonies despite their absence in decision-making processes.

Key Events

Several major events contributed to rising tensions:

• The Boston Massacre (1770) heightened anti-British sentiments.
• The Boston Tea Party (1773) was a direct act of defiance against British tax policy.
• The First Continental Congress (1774) unified the colonies in their responses against British actions, marking a significant step towards independence.