My trial lesson

• History

Put the events in the correct chronological order.

Boston Tea Party

Stamp Act

Declaration of Independence

Sugar Act

Townshend Act

Independence

Over the course of the first year of the war, it became clear that the British were not inclined to give up or even share power in the colonies. The Continental Congress decided therefore that the colonies would become independent and appointed Thomas Jefferson to draw up the Declaration of Independence. The Declaration was adopted by the Congress on July 4th 1776, thereby giving birth to the United States of America. The text of the declaration clearly reflects the ideas of the Enlightenment:

The books written by European Enlightenment thinkers were widely available in the colonies. The idea of basic human rights, which even kings could not take away, was very popular in the colonies.

The fourth of July is still celebrated today as Independence Day.

Continental Congress signs the Declaration of Independence on july 4th, 1776.

John Hancock, president of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. His name has therefore become synonymous with the word ‘signature’ in American slang. So, when asked for your John Hancock while visiting the US, you now know your signature is needed!

What does the U.S. Declaration of Independence say about human rights?

Reflect

If you lived during this time would you be loyal to Britain or would you side with the colonists? Why?

Why was the Declaration
of Independence so
important?