Name ______________________________________________ Date ____________ Period ______
Chapter 7 Section 1 Reading Guide KEY 20 points possible
1.
In what ways was the Revolution like a civil war? (1 point)
The Revolution divided the population of America into two sides that fought against each
other; Patriots and Loyalists had different political views they fought for
2.
What were the opposing viewpoints of the Patriots and Loyalists? (2 points)
Patriots supported American Independence from Britain
Loyalists wanted America to remain a British colony.
3.
What problems did the Patriots face as they prepared for war? (2 points)
Inadequate supplies, one-year enlistment, inexperienced soldiers, little professional
leadership.
4.
What was George Washington’s major strategy for the war? (1 point)
To keep the revolution alive, and avoid a crushing defeat.
5.
What problems did the British have as they prepared for war? ( 2 points)
some generals refused to fight, little public support for the war, difficulty recruiting soldiers;
6.
Why did Thomas Paine write, “The American Crisis”? ( 1 point)
The Continental Army was losing… he wrote it to encourage soldiers to stay and fight and not
give up
7.
How did Washington reverse a series of American defeat? ( 1 point)
Washington scored a major defeat of the British at Trenton by crossing the Delaware River at
night and surprising his enemy while they slept.
8.
Why was the Continental Army’s victory at Trenton so important? ( 1 point)
*It proved that Washington was a good leader * increased recruitment * gave them needed
supplies
9.
What was Britain’s northern strategy in 1777? ( 1 point)
To seize the Hudson River valley and cut off New England from the rest of the states
10.
Why did Howe and St. Leger fail to follow through with the planned strategy? (2 pts)
Howe decided to invade Pennsylvania instead and try to capture Philadelphia;
St. Leger was tricked into retreating
11. How did the actions of Howe and St. Leger affect Burgoyne? (1 point)
Burgoyne was left with inadequate forces and supplies and was defeated at Saratoga.
12. Why did Burgoyne send troops into Vermont? (1 point)
To search for supplies
13. Why did the British want to control the Hudson River valley? (1 point)
They wanted to divide the states and isolate New England.
14. What were the two most important results of the Patriot victories at the Battles of Saratoga? (2
points)
prevented the British from isolating New England; helped convince European nations to come
to America’s aid
15. Explain why Saratoga was called a “turning point” in the American Revolution? ( 1 point)
Because it prevented Britain from isolating New England. The victory proved that Americans might
win the war. The victory convinced European nations to assist America in the war.