The Influence of REVOLUTIONARY Ideals [APUSH Review Unit 3 Topic 6 (3.6)] Period 3: 1754-1800

How Did Revolutionary Ideals Affect American and Global Society?

Impact on American Society

• The video addresses two main questions: the effects of the American Revolution on American society and its impact on global society.

• Revolutionary literature emphasized liberty and rights, leading to increased concern over societal inequality, particularly regarding slavery. Thomas Jefferson's declaration that "all men are created equal" highlighted this contradiction.

• In response to revolutionary ideals, many northern states abolished slavery, and the Continental Congress ended the importation of enslaved laborers. However, this momentum waned as southern plantation owners prioritized economic interests.

• Revolutionary ideals also democratized state and national governments by expanding suffrage rights and abolishing titles of nobility, promoting a more inclusive political landscape.

• Women played significant roles during the war; they contributed to agriculture and formed associations like the Ladies Association of Philadelphia. Some even disguised themselves as men to fight in combat.

Women's Roles Post-Revolution

• After experiencing greater autonomy during the war, women sought permanent expansion of their roles in society. This led to the concept of Republican Motherhood, emphasizing women's importance in raising educated sons for a healthy democracy.

• While limited compared to modern standards for women's equality, many women viewed education as a dignified contribution to nation-building.

Global Influence of Revolutionary Ideals

• The success of the American Revolution inspired other nations; it demonstrated that victory against a monarchy was possible without establishing another oppressive regime but rather promoting Enlightenment principles like natural rights.

• The French Revolution (1789), influenced by America's success, arose from economic struggles under King Louis XVI. The Third Estate's dissatisfaction with unequal representation led them to form their own National Assembly.

• The storming of the Bastille on July 14th symbolized resistance against monarchical abuse. This event resulted in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen, echoing themes from America's Declaration of Independence.

Haitian Revolution and Its Impact on Latin America

The Haitian Victory

• The Haitian Revolution marked a surprising victory against the French, leading to the establishment of an independent Haitian government.

• This event was significant as it represented the first successful revolution by enslaved people and resulted in the creation of the first black-led independent nation in the Western Hemisphere.

Ripple Effects in Latin America

• Following Haiti's success, other Latin American countries began to rebel against their colonizers, particularly Spain and Portugal.