Revolutionary War the American Revolution: Term Paper

By studying the American Revolution, children will gain a sense of how 'young' America is, in comparison to other nations, and why such issues as individualism and taxation remain such an important part of the American civic discourse today. Being able to identify major British and American figures of the revolution is essential because people like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison continue to play such an important influence on our image as to what constitutes an 'American' leader in every election. Children must understand these leaders as imperfect individuals, not as icons. Understanding the American guerilla warfare tactics in the major battles of the Revolutionary War help show how America was able to challenge the British army's superior numbers and firepower.

Explaining New Jersey's critical role in the American Revolution is important in understanding exactly how America's independence was won can bring history to life for young children because so many of the major monuments are nearby.This helps students gain a sense of the importance of participating in the local community, and how New Jersey affected national history.

Finally, as students describe the political and philosophical origins of the Declaration of Independence, they will gain a sense of America's place in a greater, international philosophical movement to extend more rights to ordinary citizens. The Declaration of Independence had its origins in European Enlightenment philosophy of the 17th century long before the Founding Fathers were born. Comprehending the uniqueness of the American 'experiment,' one of the first nations founded upon Enlightenment ideals, as well as America's debt to thinkers from other nations, helps give students a reasoned and intelligent sense of….....