Colonial Governments and the Road to Independence

The video discusses the evolution of colonial governments in America, starting with self-governance in Jamestown and leading to the American Revolution. It covers the development of written constitutions, the establishment of separate government branches, and the concept of checks and balances. Key historical events such as the French and Indian War, the Stamp Act, the Boston Massacre, and the Boston Tea Party are highlighted, culminating in the Revolutionary War and the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

What was the main reason for the colonies being largely self-governed before 1760?

• Parliament was too busy with European affairs.

• The colonies had their own military forces.

• The colonies were too far from England.

• There was little interest from the English Parliament.

How did colonial governments differ from the British government?

• Colonial governments had no legislative branch.

• Colonial governments were based on monarchy.

• Colonial governments had written constitutions.

• Colonial governments had a single ruler.

What was the primary reason for the imposition of the Stamp Act?

• To fund the construction of new colonial buildings.

• To help pay off war debts from the French and Indian War.

• To punish the colonies for disobedience.

• To regulate trade between colonies.

Why were the colonists upset about the Stamp Act?

• They had no representation in Parliament.

• It was a tax on land.

• It was a tax on imported goods.

• It was a tax on tea.

What was the Boston Massacre?

• A celebration of British rule.

• A violent clash between colonists and British soldiers.

• A peaceful protest against taxes.

• A meeting of colonial leaders.

Who defended the British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre?

• John Adams

• Thomas Jefferson

• George Washington

• Benjamin Franklin

What was the main action taken by the First Continental Congress?

• Organizing a boycott of British goods.

• Declaring war on England.

• Sending a petition to King George III.

• Establishing a new colonial government.

What event is referred to as the 'shots heard around the world'?

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence.

• The Boston Tea Party.

• The battles of Lexington and Concord.

• The Boston Massacre.

What was the significance of July 4, 1776?

• The start of the Revolutionary War.

• The first meeting of the Continental Congress.

• The signing of the Declaration of Independence.

• The end of the French and Indian War.

What was the main grievance of the colonists regarding British taxes?

• The taxes were on essential goods.

• The taxes were too high.

• They had no representation in the decision-making process.

• The taxes were only imposed on the wealthy.