6 of 6 results for "independence"
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Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence

In Thomas Jefferson and the Declaration of Independence, learn how the colonies made the case for independence from Britain during the Revolutionary War. A Committee of Five, including Thomas Jefferson, drafted the document, drawing on ideas from the Virginia Declaration of Rights and John Locke. The Declaration outlined reasons for independence, the philosophy behind it, the king’s offenses, and concluded with the resolution for freedom. It was approved on July 4, 1776, and its original draft is now on permanent display in Washington, D.C.

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Disagreements on the Declaration of Independence

In Disagreements on the Declaration of Independence, historian Lucy Worsley researches the ambiguity of the first drafts of the agreement. It had to satisfy people from 13 states, with opposing views on divisive subjects such as slavery and religion. This video is excerpted from BBC's American History's Biggest Fibs with Lucy Worsley, in which Worsley reveals the myths and manipulations behind American history.

Student Article
Women in the American Revolution: Courageous Contributions on the Road to Independence

The article "Women in the American Revolution: Courageous Contributions on the Road to Independence" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the diverse roles women played during the American Revolution. It highlights figures like Abigail Adams, who advocated for women's rights; Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight; and Phillis Wheatley, an enslaved poet whose writings inspired many.

Student Article
Why the United States of America Celebrates Independence Day on July Fourth

The article "Why the United States of America Celebrates Independence Day on July Fourth" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains the origins of America's Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Dr. Tom Cutterham discusses the historical context of the American Revolutionary War, the contributions of key figures like Thomas Jefferson, and the significance of the day in shaping America's identity.

Student Article
The Declaration of Independence: A Revolutionary Document and Its Unfinished Promise

The article "The Declaration of Independence: A Revolutionary Document and Its Unfinished Promise" from BBC's HistoryExtra explains the origins and content of the Declaration of Independence, which declared the American colonies free from British rule. The document outlined grievances against King George III and promised freedom and equality, yet it ignored key groups like enslaved people and Native Americans.

Student Article
Benjamin Franklin: The Revolutionary Genius Who Shaped America’s Future

The article "Benjamin Franklin: The Revolutionary Genius Who Shaped America’s Future" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the many roles of Benjamin Franklin. A Founding Father, inventor, and diplomat, Franklin was pivotal in securing the French-American alliance during the American Revolution. Known for his inventions like the lightning rod and bifocals, he also played a key part in drafting the Declaration of Independence.