Who Won the American Revolution?: Crash Course US History #7

John Green introduces the concept of revolutions, distinguishing between those that lead to change and those that do not. He uses the French Revolution as an example of the latter, where power shifted from a Bourbon to a Bonaparte without significant societal change. Green then contrasts this with the American Revolution, which was a mix of both. He humorously acknowledges the support France provided to the American cause and discusses the mixed outcomes of the American Revolution, suggesting that while the power remained in the hands of the elite, the rhetoric of freedom and equality was influential. He introduces the War for Independence and outlines the British strategy to capture cities and force surrender, which was only partially successful due to American advantages such as knowledge of the terrain and supply lines. The Battle of Trenton is highlighted as a significant victory for the Americans, despite the hardships faced at Valley Forge. The importance of the Battle of Saratoga and the French support, which eventually led to their own financial crisis and revolution, is also discussed. The summary concludes with the British surrender at Yorktown in 1781, marking the end of the war.

This paragraph delves into the impact of the American Revolution on different groups within society. It discusses the hardships faced by Continental soldiers, who often had low morale due to poor rations and unpaid wages. It also touches on the divided loyalties among colonists, with some fighting for the British and others, like the Quakers, refusing to fight at all, leading to property confiscation and loss of rights. For slaves, the revolution presented a complex situation, with some seeing it as an opportunity for freedom through British offers, leading to thousands deserting their masters. The British Empire's eventual abolition of slavery without a civil war is noted. Native Americans are also highlighted, with many attempting to remain neutral but ultimately being drawn into the conflict, often facing brutal retaliation from American troops. The paragraph also covers the limited gains for women, despite some, like Deborah Sampson, fighting in the war. The introduction of the concept of Republican Motherhood is mentioned, which emphasized the importance of women's education for the upbringing of future citizens.

The paragraph explores the ideological aspects of the American Revolution, focusing on the Declaration of Independence and its assertion that 'all men are created equal' with inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It discusses how these ideas led to broader voting rights, despite still favoring white males, and the establishment of true religious freedom with the separation of church and state. The economic changes brought about by the revolution are also highlighted, including the decline in apprenticeship and indentured servitude and the economic divide between the North and South, exacerbated by the invention of the cotton gin. The paragraph concludes with a reflection on the paradox of the Revolution's ideals of liberty alongside the institution of slavery, noting the hypocrisy of the time and the few voices, like James Otis, who advocated for the extension of liberty to slaves.

In this final paragraph, Green discusses the true impact of the American Revolution, emphasizing the importance of the ideas that emerged from it. He touches on the economic and social changes, such as the growth of free people of color in the U.S. and the slow abolition of slavery in the northern states. The paragraph highlights the novel concept of American equality, which challenged the European class system and introduced the idea that all individuals have the capacity to reason and work, regardless of their birth. Green concludes by stating that while the U.S. may no longer lead in equality of opportunity, the early American idea of inherent equality laid the foundation for many future revolutions and societal changes around the world.