Why did the colonists fight the British?

Prepare for the GED Civics Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get set for success!

The correct response is that the colonists fought the British to gain independence from British rule. During the years leading up to the American Revolutionary War, the colonists experienced increasing dissatisfaction with British governance, primarily due to the lack of representation in Parliament and their belief that they should not be taxed without consent.

High taxes were indeed a significant factor that fueled the colonists' anger; however, it was not the sole reason for the fight. The overarching desire for independence encompassed issues of taxation, unfair laws, and the fundamental principle of self-governance. Events like the Boston Tea Party and various protests highlighted the colonists' frustrations, demonstrating that they sought to break free from British control rather than merely protesting against tax policies.

While expanding territory and supporting British policies do not align with the motivations for rebellion, it's essential to understand that the core reason was the drive for independence, which encompassed their grievances regarding taxation and other forms of British domination. The fight for independence ultimately represented a larger struggle for freedom and the rights of individuals to govern themselves.

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