How did the fighting at Lexington and Concord affect the relationship between the colonies and the Great Britain?
The "shot heard around the world" at Lexington was the first shot in the American Revolution. The patriots were determined to fight for an independent nation. The British were determined to stop them. These battles destroyed the tenuous relationship between Britain and the colonies.
Check these sites for more information.
http://www.kidport.com/RefLib/UsaHistory/AmericanRevolution/LexingtonBattle.htm
http://www.theamericanrevolution.org/battles/bat_lex.asp
The fighting at Lexington and Concord is considered a significant event that marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War in April 1775. It had a profound impact on the relationship between the American colonies and Great Britain, which ultimately led to the colonies' quest for independence. Here's how it affected their relationship:
1. Escalation of hostilities: The skirmishes at Lexington and Concord resulted in the death of several British soldiers and American colonists. This marked a turning point in the conflict between the colonies and Britain, as violence had now been unleashed. It fueled anger and resentment among the colonists and intensified their desire for independence.
2. Boosted colonial unity: The battles at Lexington and Concord galvanized the American colonies, as news of the armed resistance spread quickly throughout the region. It led to an outpouring of support and increased unity among the colonies, as they realized the necessity of collective action against British oppression. Colonial militias formed and prepared to defend their rights and interests.
3. The Declaration of Independence: The fighting at Lexington and Concord was a significant factor in pushing the colonies towards declaring independence from Great Britain. As the conflict escalated, it became clear that a peaceful resolution was unlikely. This event, along with subsequent battles, such as Bunker Hill, convinced many colonists that their only option was severing ties with Britain and establishing a new nation.
4. Hardened British policy: Following the skirmishes, the British government responded with harsh measures, such as the Prohibitory Act of 1775, which declared the colonies to be in a state of rebellion and imposed trade restrictions. The British military presence increased, and more troops were dispatched to assert control over the colonies. These actions further alienated the colonists and only deepened their resolve for independence.
In summary, the fighting at Lexington and Concord acted as a catalyst, escalating tensions between the colonies and Great Britain. It solidified colonial unity, helped motivate the colonies to declare independence, and led to a hardening of British policies. These events ultimately set the stage for the American Revolution and the birth of the United States of America.