The American War of Independence
Study note
By the 1760s Britain had a number of wealthy colonies along the east coast of North America, and these colonies largely ran their own affairs. Trouble began when the British government tried to raise money by taxing them. The colonists objected, arguing that there should be no taxation without representation, meaning they should not be taxed when they had no members in the British Parliament. That slogan is one to remember.
The dispute led to war and then to independence. In 1776 thirteen of the American colonies declared their independence from Britain. After years of fighting, Britain finally recognised that independence in 1783. So fix two dates: 1776 for the declaration of independence and 1783 for Britain's formal recognition of it.
Memory tip: 'No taxation without representation'; 13 colonies declare independence 1776; Britain accepts in 1783.
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Question 1 of 3
In which year did the 13 American colonies declare their independence?
Show all questions and answers for The American War of Independence(3 questions with explanations)
The American War of Independence: questions, answers and explanations
1. In which year did the 13 American colonies declare their independence?
- 1707
- 1783
- 1815
- 1776
Correct answer: 1776
The American colonies declared independence in 1776.
2. In which year did Britain recognise the independence of the American colonies?
- 1746
- 1776
- 1801
- 1783
Correct answer: 1783
Britain recognised the colonies' independence in 1783.
3. What slogan did the American colonists use to protest against British taxes?
- Rule Britannia
- No taxation without representation
- Liberty or death
- Bread and freedom
Correct answer: No taxation without representation
The colonists argued there should be no taxation without representation in Parliament.
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