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Mariella Smith
12/9/2025
US Government and Civics
Colonial America- Basics of American Government
48
•
Dec 9, 2025
•
Mariella Smith
@mossymeadow
The American colonies' journey from establishment to independence is a... Show more
Ever wonder how the United States began? It all started with the establishment of colonies like Jamestown (1607), Plymouth (1620), and Massachusetts Bay (1630). While many think America was founded purely for religious freedom, the reality is more complex.
The colonies operated under different forms of control. Some were royal colonies directly governed by the king, while others were charter colonies operating with the king's permission. The relationship between Great Britain and the colonies was defined by salutary neglect - a hands-off approach where colonists enjoyed self-government in exchange for economic benefits to Britain.
This comfortable arrangement lasted until the French and Indian War (1754-1763). When George Washington attacked French forces without London's permission, it triggered a conflict that left Britain with massive debt. This financial burden would change everything between Britain and its American colonies.
Think About It: Salutary neglect allowed American colonists to develop a taste for self-governance long before independence. How might American history have been different if Britain had maintained tighter control from the beginning?
Britain's relationship with America was built on colonialism - control of lands abroad for the benefit of the mother country. This worked through mercantilism, an economic system where wealth (especially gold and silver) equals power. The colonies existed primarily to build Britain's favorable balance of trade.
After the French and Indian War, Britain needed money and ended salutary neglect. Parliament introduced new taxes, both indirect taxes (affecting merchants, like sugar taxes) and direct taxes (affecting all citizens). This sparked an important debate about representation.
The colonists argued "No taxation without representation," demanding direct representation where they would have their own representatives in Parliament. Britain countered with the concept of virtual representation, claiming that English citizens in Parliament already represented colonial interests. Both positions were reasonable - they just reflected fundamentally different values about governance.
Important Concept: The taxation dispute wasn't simply about money - it revealed a deep philosophical divide about who had the right to govern the colonies and how representation should work.
The 1800s brought Enlightenment ideas that revolutionized how people thought about government. Thinkers like John Locke (natural rights to life, liberty, property), Thomas Hobbes (social contract theory), Voltaire (reason and human progress), and Montesquieu (separation of powers) challenged the divine right of kings and put forward the radical idea that power should come from the people.
As tensions grew with Britain, the colonies made several attempts at unity. The New England Confederation formed to protect against Native Americans. The Albany Plan tried to create an alliance with Native Americans against the French. The Stamp Act Congress responded to Britain's first direct tax with the Declaration of Rights and Grievances, while also birthing the rebellious Sons of Liberty.
Further British actions like the Townshend Acts (which legalized writs of assistance for searching homes) and the Boston Massacre (which became powerful propaganda despite its small scale) only increased colonial resistance. Sam Adams' Circulatory Letter led to non-importation agreements, showing growing colonial coordination.
Connect the Dots: Notice how each British action triggered a stronger and more unified colonial response. This gradual build-up of colonial cooperation was essential groundwork for the coming revolution.
The path to revolution accelerated with several key events. The Gaspé Affair led to the formation of committees of correspondence, improving communication between colonies. The Boston Tea Party became the last straw for Britain, pushing relations to the breaking point.
During this time, Americans developed a sense of patriotism - seeing the flaws in their country but still wanting the best for it. This differs from nationalism, which blindly views one's country as superior to all others. This distinction remains important in understanding healthy civic engagement.
Civil rights leader John Lewis embodied this patriotic spirit centuries later. As the youngest civil rights leader and a freedom rider, he believed voting was sacred and encouraged people to get into "good trouble" - standing up against injustice while working to improve the nation.
Make It Personal: The Revolutionary generation had to decide whether to remain loyal to Britain or risk everything for independence. What principles or rights would be important enough for you to take a similar stand?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
App Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Mariella Smith
@mossymeadow
The American colonies' journey from establishment to independence is a story of growing tension with Great Britain. This chapter explores how the relationship evolved from relatively peaceful coexistence to open rebellion as differences over taxation, representation, and self-governance became irreconcilable.
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Ever wonder how the United States began? It all started with the establishment of colonies like Jamestown (1607), Plymouth (1620), and Massachusetts Bay (1630). While many think America was founded purely for religious freedom, the reality is more complex.
The colonies operated under different forms of control. Some were royal colonies directly governed by the king, while others were charter colonies operating with the king's permission. The relationship between Great Britain and the colonies was defined by salutary neglect - a hands-off approach where colonists enjoyed self-government in exchange for economic benefits to Britain.
This comfortable arrangement lasted until the French and Indian War (1754-1763). When George Washington attacked French forces without London's permission, it triggered a conflict that left Britain with massive debt. This financial burden would change everything between Britain and its American colonies.
Think About It: Salutary neglect allowed American colonists to develop a taste for self-governance long before independence. How might American history have been different if Britain had maintained tighter control from the beginning?
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Britain's relationship with America was built on colonialism - control of lands abroad for the benefit of the mother country. This worked through mercantilism, an economic system where wealth (especially gold and silver) equals power. The colonies existed primarily to build Britain's favorable balance of trade.
After the French and Indian War, Britain needed money and ended salutary neglect. Parliament introduced new taxes, both indirect taxes (affecting merchants, like sugar taxes) and direct taxes (affecting all citizens). This sparked an important debate about representation.
The colonists argued "No taxation without representation," demanding direct representation where they would have their own representatives in Parliament. Britain countered with the concept of virtual representation, claiming that English citizens in Parliament already represented colonial interests. Both positions were reasonable - they just reflected fundamentally different values about governance.
Important Concept: The taxation dispute wasn't simply about money - it revealed a deep philosophical divide about who had the right to govern the colonies and how representation should work.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The 1800s brought Enlightenment ideas that revolutionized how people thought about government. Thinkers like John Locke (natural rights to life, liberty, property), Thomas Hobbes (social contract theory), Voltaire (reason and human progress), and Montesquieu (separation of powers) challenged the divine right of kings and put forward the radical idea that power should come from the people.
As tensions grew with Britain, the colonies made several attempts at unity. The New England Confederation formed to protect against Native Americans. The Albany Plan tried to create an alliance with Native Americans against the French. The Stamp Act Congress responded to Britain's first direct tax with the Declaration of Rights and Grievances, while also birthing the rebellious Sons of Liberty.
Further British actions like the Townshend Acts (which legalized writs of assistance for searching homes) and the Boston Massacre (which became powerful propaganda despite its small scale) only increased colonial resistance. Sam Adams' Circulatory Letter led to non-importation agreements, showing growing colonial coordination.
Connect the Dots: Notice how each British action triggered a stronger and more unified colonial response. This gradual build-up of colonial cooperation was essential groundwork for the coming revolution.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
The path to revolution accelerated with several key events. The Gaspé Affair led to the formation of committees of correspondence, improving communication between colonies. The Boston Tea Party became the last straw for Britain, pushing relations to the breaking point.
During this time, Americans developed a sense of patriotism - seeing the flaws in their country but still wanting the best for it. This differs from nationalism, which blindly views one's country as superior to all others. This distinction remains important in understanding healthy civic engagement.
Civil rights leader John Lewis embodied this patriotic spirit centuries later. As the youngest civil rights leader and a freedom rider, he believed voting was sacred and encouraged people to get into "good trouble" - standing up against injustice while working to improve the nation.
Make It Personal: The Revolutionary generation had to decide whether to remain loyal to Britain or risk everything for independence. What principles or rights would be important enough for you to take a similar stand?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
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