AP U.S. History

Flagship Academic - AP U.S. History (part of Advanced Placement)

Colonial FoundationsThe American RevolutionCivil War and Reconstruction
Industrialization and UrbanizationThe Great Depression and New DealCivil Rights Movements
Connecting Past to PresentCritical Thinking with Primary SourcesDebate and Civic Engagement
Mastering Multiple ChoiceWriting Strong EssaysTime Management on the Exam
Colonial FoundationsThe American Revolut...Civil War and Recons...Industrialization an...The Great Depression...Civil Rights Movemen...Connecting Past to P...Critical Thinking wi...Debate and Civic Eng...Mastering Multiple C...Writing Strong Essay...Time Management on t...
Basic Concepts

The American Revolution

Breaking Away from Britain

Tensions grew between the British government and its American colonies over issues like taxes (Stamp Act, Tea Act) and lack of representation. The cry of "No taxation without representation!" echoed through the colonies.

Road to Revolution

  • Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party: Flashpoints that galvanized colonial resistance.
  • Continental Congress: Colonies united to discuss a collective response.
  • Declaration of Independence (1776): Authored by Thomas Jefferson, it articulated the colonies’ right to self-government.

War and Aftermath

The war featured famous battles (Saratoga, Yorktown) and key allies like France. The Treaty of Paris (1783) recognized American independence.

Revolutionary Ideas in Action

The Revolution inspired other movements for freedom and shaped the U.S. Constitution.

Examples

  • The drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence

  • Washington’s leadership at Valley Forge

In a Nutshell

The American Revolution marked the birth of the United States and new democratic ideals.

Next
Civil War and Reconstruction