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French and Indian War
The war ended with the Treaty of Paris which eliminated French power in North America. Colonists rejected the plan of forming centralized union to defend their interests but others agreed to join. -
Sugar act
Imposed taxes on imports of raw sugar and molasses, placed new taxes on silk, wine, coffee and indigo. Colonists were furious that the act violated traditional English rights. -
Stamp Act
First direct tax levied on the colonists. Colonists ignored it and began boycotting all British goods. -
Declaratory Act
Affirmed authority to make laws for the colonies. Colonists were mad because they were being taxed without giving them representation in Parliament. -
The Townshend Act
New regulation and taxes that infuriated colonists and made them start organizing resistance against Britain. Colonists argued that the British parliament did not have the right to tax them because of the lack of representation. The resentment over this act divided American colonists into patriots and loyalists. -
Tea Act
Reduced tax on tea shipped to the colonies from the British East India Company. Colonists were more willing to buy British tea since it was cheaper. -
Revolutionary War
Mercenaries were defeated, continental army gained supply, weapons, and Washington troops improved. Unexpected nature of the maneuver helped make the surprise attack a success.