What events led to the American Revolution?

What Led to the Revolution

In the 1760s the British Parliament began trying to legislate directly for the colonies, in particular to tax them. Since they had no representation in the Parliament they had no voice in setting these taxes. There was thus nothing to stop the Parliament from taxing away every bit of wealth and property they had. Without the ability to control their own taxation all of their liberties were endangered. The British, based on the constitutional settlements after the English Revolution, argued that the parliament could act in the King's name throughout his dominions on all of his subjects. After years of sometimes peaceful, sometimes violent protests on the part of the colonists, and ever harsher enforcement measures by the British, culminating in placing Massachussetts under military rule, open war broke out. Over a year later, when Britain showed no sign of taking measures to protect the rights of the colonists, they finally saw independence as the only way to secure their liberty and self government.

First answer by Chris. Last edit by ID0000000000. Question popularity: 69 [recommend question]