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What 18th Century beliefs about politics, religion, and society are reflected in the ideals that inspired the revolutionary cause?
What 18th Century beliefs about politics, religion, and society are reflected in the ideals that inspired the revolutionary cause?
Before independence was declared in 1776, American colonists were already engaged in a powerful debate over the meaning of liberty, rights, and government. This lesson begins with an exploration of how print culture—from pamphlets and broadsides to political cartoons and sermons—shaped a shared sense of American identity. Students will examine examples of revolutionary-era print materials to understand how ideas about independence spread through everyday media and helped transform local grievances into a unified political philosophy. By analyzing these sources, you will have the opportunity to connect the philosophical arguments of the Declaration of Independence to the public discourse that made revolution imaginable.
Contextualization: Print Culture
Contextualization: Print Culture
Early American print culture evolved from a tightly controlled colonial enterprise into a powerful tool for communication, debate, and identity. Printers like Benjamin Franklin helped spread ideas through newspapers, pamphlets, and books that connected the colonies, fueled revolutionary thought, and reflected both the promise and contradictions of freedom in early America. Yet, print also reinforced systems of power, including slavery and censorship, showing that the press could unite and divide at the same time.
How did the growth of print culture in the colonies both challenge and reinforce existing power structures in early America?
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"The American Revolution" Section IV
"The American Revolution" Section IV
Why did the United States declare independence?
The Declaration
The Declaration
Debates about democracy, freedom, citizenship, diversity, and individualism shaped American identity, and in turn, these ideas shaped political institutions and society. The Declaration of Independence is the most illustrative example of this process. The ideas in this document tell the story of how Americans were driven to separate from the British Crown. It includes specific reasons for the separation and philosophical beliefs that underlie the decision.
Shared Drive
Shared Drive
"Declaration of Independence"
"Declaration of Independence"
Make a copy of the Declaration of Independence (PDF) -- 1 per group.
Use the comment tool (for the PDF) to match grievances with specific events or policies.
Skills Packet
Skills Packet
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