American discontent focused on financial grievances but the chief reason for American opposition was the matter of authority How far do you agree with this view
American discontent focused on financial grievances, but the chief reason for American opposition was the matter of authority. How far do you agree with this view? There were a number of causes that lead to conflict between Britain and the colonists in America during the second half of the eighteenth century. The question is whether an American rebellion was mostly due to a difference of opinion over how much independence the colonies were entitled to, or whether other reasons such as the difficulties imposed on America by taxation and control of trade were equally to blame. Certainly, the argument that Britain did not have the authority to deny the basic right of liberty to all of the colonists was a major reason for opposition. American society was favourable to democracy, as there was little class distinction and few wealthy people. Many Americans believed that British legislation concerning the colonies was ignoring the rights and privileges that every man was entitled to. They thought that the taxes and duties imposed by the government of Britain were invading their social and political liberties. Through laws such as the Molasses Act of 1733, which taxes molasses imports from outside the Empire, many
They rebelled against British actions, but the most important reason for the rebellion was not British authority. The financial problems caused for many businesses clearly led to massive opposition to British legislation and shows that financial grievances were what opposition was focused around. Although arguments about how Britain should not have the authority to take away American liberties were convenient, financial grievances were what effected the people and the businesses in America more. Without the threat of loosing essential liberties, there may not have been the same numbers of opposition. The Albany conference called in 1754 talked about appointing a president-General as leader of all 13 colonies. Their livelihoods were threatened and this pushed the people into reacting, as shown by the Boston Tea Party. This lead to conflict against the British rule and makes the statement that British authority was the chief reason for opposition less accurate. Through hard times caused by imperial legislation, the idea that it would be better for America to seek independence spread encouraging more opposition to Britain. The American war leaders, such as George Washington, were able to gain training and experience in the Seven Years War, which may have given the colonists more ideas of breaking away from the power of the British. In my opinion, opposition against British rule stemmed from financial difficulties as they affected the fundamental issues in people's lives. However, the financial difficulties created by the taxes and duties caused many grievances, which must have been the initial first step to cause people to object. However, it must not be forgotten that British authority created the financial problems, amongst also endangering liberty. This opposition resulted in the dropping of all duties except those on tea. Ultimately, it is clear that British authority and the financial problems facing the colonies are strongly linked and are proportional to each other.
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