This week you should think about the American Revolution. In a way, this discussion is not easy because you have become accustomed to the commonplace rhetoric of political oppression. So how should we approach this era?

One approach is to ask questions. As Britain began to organize its world empire at the end of the Seven Years war, why did colonialists feel that their liberty was in danger? How did they react to the arrival of British troops? Why did it become necessary to take up arms? What lessons had Americans learned in their efforts to thwart legislation such as the Stamp Act?

Jefferson had one answer:

"Single acts of tyranny may be ascribed to the accidental opinion of a day; but a series of oppressions, begun at a distinguished period, and pursued unalterably through every change of ministers, too plainly prove a deliberate and systematical plan of reducing us to slavery." Summary Views (1774)

Equally important, what did slaves think about the revolutionary rhetoric? And what type of nation did the founders envision?

In search of other answers, each generation of historians has brought new insight into the revolutionary experience. Some find meaning in social change; others in political and economic developments (see The Economics of the Revolutionary War). In fact, the roots of the American Revolution as well as our interpretation of this episode are complex and varied (see, for example, Religion and the Founding of the American Republic).

To uncover the background of the revolution, look carefully at the Declaration of Independence (1776) and that long list of reasons for rebellion to understand the many layers of possible interpretations. Plus you should think about British efforts to control their vast colonial territory.

Keep in mind that the American revolution was one of many revolutions that challenged traditional values and led to upheavals in Europe.