United States History Reading Guide

1. Why did the British government issue the Proclamation of 1763? Do you agree or disagree with it? How would you have reacted?

1. Why did colonial merchants start a boycott on British goods? Do you think it was justified?

1. Describe the colonists stance on taxation without representation.

1. Why did parliament pass the “Intolerable Acts”?

1. Why was the First Continental Congress such a big step for the colonists?

1. Why did the British seem to suffer more casualties than the Patriots during many of their battles? How did this represent the colonists’ attitudes?

1. What could have happened after the Declaration of Independence was sent if the Patriots had lost the war? What about the men that signed it? Would you have signed it knowing the consequence of losing?

1. What problems did the leaders of the Patriot army face?

1. Why would the colonists and the British both be trying to recruit Native Americans?

1. Who all did the Colonists get help from after the Battle of Saratoga? Why do you think these other groups joined in?

11. Describe the shift that happened when the colonists finally defeated the British. How did this alter the course of history for Britain and the United States?