AP U.S. History
Mr. Silva
Discussion Questions
Unit 2: The American Revolution
1. Independence was probably inevitable by the end of 1775. Comment on the validity of this
statement.
2. What might have caused some people to remain Loyalists?
3. Was the American Revolution a conservative or radical movement? Explain.
4. The Declaration of Independence has been variously interpreted as a bid for French support,
an attempt to swing uncommitted Americans to the Revolutionary cause, a statement of universal
principles, and an affirmation of the traditional rights of Englishmen. To what extent, if any, are
these interpretations in conflict?
5. Americans have been idealists in going to war but realists at the peace table. Assess the
validity of this statement for the Revolutionary War.
6. The American Revolution should really be called the “British Revolution” because marked
changes in British colonial policy were more responsible for the final political division than were
American actions. Assess this statement.
7. Why did the greater disruption of the war not lead to greater social upheaval in the new United
States?