Describe The Factors That Led To A Dual Identity Between The Colonist And The British

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There are many factors that lead to a dual identity between the North American colonist and the British. One of the first factors during the 18th century was the colonial economy was growing rapidly. This was largely due to the immense immigration. The Dutch, German and Irish began to weave among the population. During this time, the colonial population was growing just as fast as the economy. Much of the population became farmers which provided imports to England. This helped to build a strong bond between Britain and America. The British relied strongly on colonial imports. Macmillan Learning states, “Despite the many differences among the colonists, the consumption of British exports built a certain material uniformity across region, religion, …show more content…

This tolerance also emerges out of decreasing religions during the 18th century. According to Macmillan Learning, the decrease in religious importance helped to unify the country 's (129). As time progress more people were focusing on world events than previously in the 1700’s. Britain had lax control over the colonies at this point, the colonies tended to follow the same rules of governing even though the colonies were separate entities. This added to the sense of unity between nations. Seeing how most of the descendants were from Britain, it makes sense these loyalists obeyed Britain and were afraid to veer off on a different path. The last factor ends with the French and Indian War. The Americans and the British teamed up together to fight the French. The land was too valuable, and if the French won, they would have lost valuable imports. After winning the French and Indian war, the two countries felt a sense of unitement. They realized that in a time of need they could work together to accomplish their goals and defeat. Just as the war began to unite the two countries, it quickly …show more content…

This is because as soon as the war was over, Britain was left with a large debt. The British thought it was only appropriate to have the colonies help pay. As a result, the British imposed taxes. The colonies were just beginning to find a slight freedom in their ruling and felt as though they were equal to Britain. These taxes imposed a monarchical tyranny and created a segregation. This angered the colonist. The taxes is one of the main reasons for the division. However, it also helped to reinforce the American identity. Slightly before the French and Indian War, the period of Enlightenment helped many to have a voice in society and question their surroundings. With this, the Enlightenment helped to open societies mind to the Common Sense written by Thomas Paine. In his sermon, Paine wrote how the government should be looking out for the common good and not just for themselves, as Britain was currently doing. It was written in simple language so citizens could comprehend. Personally one of the greatest lines written