Write an account of one of the following topics: (i) Causes of the American War of Independence - Junior Cycle History - Question C - 2008

The American War of Independence had multiple causes that can be categorized into economic, political, and social dimensions.

Economic Causes

One of the primary economic causes was the imposition of taxes by the British government without representation in the Parliament. Notable examples include the Stamp Act of 1765 and the Townshend Acts of 1767, which fueled resentment among the colonists who felt economically burdened and unrepresented.

Political Causes

Politically, the colonists were influenced by Enlightenment ideas advocating for liberty and self-governance. They were inspired by figures like John Locke, which reinforced the belief that they had the right to challenge British authority, ultimately leading to the Boston Tea Party as a form of protest against taxation without representation.

Social Causes

Socially, the desire for independence grew as colonial identity began to form, distinct from British identity. The growing sentiments of nationalism among the colonists played a significant role in uniting them against British rule, leading to organized actions like the First Continental Congress in 1774.