America went through a major transition between the 1760's and 1770's. In the 60's, being an Englishmen was respectable and was wanted by all American's, but by the 70's, independence from England was deemed necessary. Americans changed from following the crown and all its demands to standing up for their natural rights as free men. What used to be British rights and liberties soon became the natural liberties of mankind. Declaring independence from Great Britain was the only option for America in order to claim these natural rights.
             The Stamp Act was Great Britain's first attempt to take away American liberties. It was met with an outcry for England to repeal the Act. The Act was considered dishonest because it brought about taxation without representation. Because there was no American representation in Parliament, acts that were oppressive towards America were passed easily. At this time, the colonists still referred to themselves as British-Americans. Because Americans were safe under British control, trade was steady, and Great Britain had never tried to impede on their liberties before this Act, most colonists wanted to reconcile their differences with England. All they wanted was a repeal and a repeal did happen, but not without consequences.
             With the repeal of the Stamp Act came the Declaratory Act. The colonists were pleased that the taxation had bee removed, however, they did not realize the magnitude of the Declaratory Act. The Act states "the King's majesty has full power and authority to make laws and statutes of sufficient force and validity to bind the colonies and people of America, in all cases whatsoever."
             This was a turning point in American history. Up until this point, Americans had been upset with Great Britain and the Parliament, but had always wished for reconciliation. When the "Intolerable Acts" were pa
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