When history is discussed, often the American Revolution is thought of as an inspiring movement that resulted in the freedom of the American people. Soldiers and founding fathers are remembered as brave heroes that fought for rights and separation from the oppressive British. The colonies fought for independence, defined as complete freedom and ability to live without being under anyone else’s authority. Ironically, however, white men mostly excluded women and African Americans from this movement, neglecting minority rights like the British had neglected theirs. Overtime, independence from Britain became the goal for white men in the colonies, women and African Americans began to desire their own. Thus, through analyzing primary sources such
…show more content…
In the 1770s, the revolution was peaking and combat was sure to come. The colonies truly started to desire independence from Britain and the King, and by 1773, “independence was discussed freely in colonial newspapers” (Wood, 37). Thereby, colonists began talking about independence publically. In this same year, as colonists got more agitated by the oppressive British regime and some became more progressive, slaves recognized their opportunity to question their own oppression. In “New England Petitions”, the first petition nicely asks for better treatment, although not transparent with their words. Felix states, “We pray for such Relief only, which by no Possibility can ever be productive of the least Wrong or Injury to our Masters; but to us will be as Life from the dead” (“New England Petitions”, 2). Hence, although not exceptionally clear, they are wishing for relief and more respect from their masters. While this particular petition doesn’t ask for freedom, and therefore independence, it still displays an act of small resistance by slaves that wouldn’t have been possible without the revolution. Overall, the colonists desire for independence from Britain and desire for equality lead to doubt surrounding slavery, and pushed slaves to openly question how they were being
In the 1770s, the revolution was peaking and combat was sure to come. The colonies truly started to desire independence from Britain and the King, and by 1773, “independence was discussed freely in colonial newspapers” (Wood, 37). Thereby, colonists began talking about independence publically. In this same year, as colonists got more agitated by the oppressive British regime and some became more progressive, slaves recognized their opportunity to question their own oppression. In “New England Petitions”, the first petition nicely asks for better treatment, although not transparent with their words. Felix states, “We pray for such Relief only, which by no Possibility can ever be productive of the least Wrong or Injury to our Masters; but to us will be as Life from the dead” (“New England Petitions”, 2). Hence, although not exceptionally clear, they are wishing for relief and more respect from their masters. While this particular petition doesn’t ask for freedom, and therefore independence, it still displays an act of small resistance by slaves that wouldn’t have been possible without the revolution. Overall, the colonists desire for independence from Britain and desire for equality lead to doubt surrounding slavery, and pushed slaves to openly question how they were being