Introduction
Most challenges in the USA were encountered in the 18th century. This was when the nation struggled for independence and freedom from European colonial rule. Americans’ role in the revolution was also characterized by the great awakening, whereby the protestants questioned the church leadership.1 The patriots helped in the course by educating Americans on their human rights and the need to take control of themselves from the Europeans. 2 The role played by the Patriots in American transformation involved using different strategies and grievances. Several methods were used in the revolution where radical ideas and innovations were incorporated into American society as a result of the American revolution.
Main Body
Definition of Patriots
The colonists who revolted against British monarchical rule were known as Patriots or Whigs. Their uprising was founded on republicanism, a social and political theory that opposed inherited power and the concepts of a monarchy and an aristocracy. 3 The extent of public support for the Revolution may have been the single most crucial factor in the patriot victory. Without the involvement of thousands of ordinary farmers, artisans, and workers who put themselves in danger, the Revolution would have failed tragically.
The patriots could be referred to as those who participated in minimizing government control and increasing sensitization on human rights for those colonized citizens.4 They could fight against mistreatment and harassment from the colonies. Patriots were against the exploitative taxes which the British government imposed.
The Second Continental Congress
Shortly after the conflict with the British started, in the summer of 1775, the Second Continental Congress met in Philadelphia. Congress named the Continental Army’s commander, and conscription was permitted for the army’s expansion. The Declaration of Independence, which first stated the colonies’ resolve to be independent of the mother country, was published by Congress on July 4, 1776. The Articles of Confederation, which were in force until 1788, created Congress as the primary governmental body.
The patriots spearheaded the struggle for independence, presenting the American grievances in the fight against the British colonialists. This made the citizens gain confidence in governing themselves as the British had no business occupying the American land. This was done by emulating the latest trends in the world and the people’s social life in London. 5
General Information
The primary ethical consideration was based on the fact that since the Americans were on their land, their views could be heard and considered when making the decision. Americans did not have their representatives during British rule, which deprived their human rights. It was, therefore, ethical to have a leader who could present the American grievances and fight for human rights.6 The patriots were determined to peacefully achieve their goal of independence by avoiding violence. They were determined to fight for what was suitable for Americans peacefully.
The first government’s creation failed due to economic disorganization, lack of central leadership, and legislation inefficiencies.7 Non-regulation of the trade by congress made the country economically unstable and unable to meet citizens’ basic needs.8 The government resolved this by establishing the Bill of Rights, which entails freedom of the Americans and assisted citizens in their fight for human rights.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Patriots supported the American colony’s independence from the British Empire. People in the US believed the British were not treating them fairly. They were subject to taxes without their consent or representation in the British government. The colonies soon began to hear cries for independence, and patriots sought to end British rule.
Bibliography
CrashCourse. “The Constitution, the Articles, and Federalism: Crash Course US History #8.” YouTube, 2013. Web.
Feagin. “6. A New Nation | the AMERICAN YAWP.” Americanyawp. 2013. Web.
McCrady, James Waring, and C. L. Bragg. “Patriots in Exile,” 2020. Web.
NBC News Learn. “The Articles of Confederation.” YouTube Video. YouTube, 2020. Web.
Stourzh, Gerald. “The American Revolution, Modern Constitutionalism, and the Protection of Human Rights*.” Truth and Tragedy, 2020, 162–76. Web.
“The American Yawp.” The American Yawp. 2022. Web.
Footnotes
- Feagin, “6. A New Nation | the AMERICAN YAWP,” Americanyawp. 2013. Web.
- Feagin, “6. A New Nation | the AMERICAN YAWP,” Americanyawp. 2013. Web.
- McCrady, James Waring, and C. L. Bragg. “Patriots in Exile,” 2020. Web.
- NBC News Learn, “The Articles of Confederation,” YouTube Video, YouTube, 2020. Web.
- Feagin. “6. A New Nation | the AMERICAN YAWP.” Americanyawp. 2013. Web.
- “The American Yawp.” The American Yawp. 2022. Web.
- Gerald Stourzh, “The American Revolution, Modern Constitutionalism, and the Protection of Human Rights*,” Truth and Tragedy, 2020, pp. 162-176. Web.
- CrashCourse, “The Constitution, the Articles, and Federalism: Crash Course US History #8,” YouTube, 2013. Web.