All questions of American Revolution for UPSC CSE Exam

"Give me liberty, or give me death!"
Patrick Henry delivered his great speech on the rights of the colonies, before the Virginia Assembly, convened at Richmond, March 23rd 1775, concluding with the above sentiment, which became the war cry of the revolution.

(a)Patrick Henry

Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution:
The commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution was George Washington.

Explanation:

1. Background:
The American Revolution was a war fought between Great Britain and thirteen of its North American colonies, which declared themselves the independent United States of America. The revolution took place from 1775 to 1783.

2. Formation of the Continental Army:
In response to growing unrest and tensions with the British, the Second Continental Congress authorized the formation of the Continental Army on June 14, 1775. The army was established to defend the American colonies against British forces.

3. Appointment of George Washington:
On June 15, 1775, Congress appointed George Washington as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army. The decision to choose Washington was based on his military experience, leadership skills, and his reputation as a respected figure among the American colonies.

4. Washington's Leadership:
As commander-in-chief, George Washington played a crucial role in leading the Continental Army throughout the American Revolution. He faced numerous challenges, including lack of resources, inexperienced troops, and the superior military strength of the British forces.

Under Washington's leadership, the Continental Army fought several significant battles, including the Battle of Trenton, Battle of Saratoga, and the decisive Battle of Yorktown. Washington's strategic decisions and perseverance helped turn the tide of the war in favor of the American colonies.

5. Legacy:
George Washington's leadership and determination during the American Revolution earned him the respect and admiration of his troops and the American people. After the war, Washington went on to become the first President of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797.

Conclusion:
George Washington's appointment as the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution was a crucial turning point in the fight for American independence. His leadership and military expertise played a significant role in the eventual victory of the American colonies over the British forces.

The correct answer is option 'A', the Treaty of Paris (1783).

The Treaty of Paris (1783) was the official agreement that ended the American Revolution and recognized American independence from Great Britain. It was signed on September 3, 1783, in Paris, France, by representatives of both the United States and Great Britain.

Key Points:
1. Negotiations: The negotiations for the treaty began in 1782, led by American diplomats John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and John Jay. They negotiated with British representatives including Richard Oswald and David Hartley.

2. Terms of the Treaty: The Treaty of Paris established several important terms that marked the end of the Revolutionary War and secured American independence:
- Recognition of American Independence: The treaty officially recognized the United States as a free and independent nation, separate from Great Britain.
- Borders: The treaty defined the boundaries of the United States, extending from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mississippi River, and from the Great Lakes to Spanish Florida.
- Fishing Rights: The treaty granted American fishermen the right to fish off the coast of Newfoundland and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
- Debts and Loyalists: The treaty also addressed issues related to debts and property confiscated during the war. It called for the restoration of confiscated property to loyalists and the repayment of debts owed to British creditors.

3. Significance: The Treaty of Paris was a significant milestone in American history as it marked the formal recognition of American independence by Great Britain. It not only ended the military conflict but also established the foundation for diplomatic relations between the two nations.

4. Impact on the American Revolution: The treaty ensured that the United States would be recognized as a sovereign nation, which allowed the newly formed country to establish itself as an independent entity on the global stage. It also provided stability and a sense of legitimacy to the American government.

In conclusion, the Treaty of Paris (1783) officially ended the American Revolution and recognized American independence from Great Britain. It established the terms of peace and laid the foundation for diplomatic relations between the two nations. This treaty was a crucial step in shaping the future of the United States as an independent nation.