Gordon Wood American Revolution free essay sample

The American Revolution was as radical as any revolution in modern history, for it replaced monarchical authority with representative government and created a society that was far more democratic than even the founding fathers had anticipated. These new ways of thinking are why Gordon Wood strongly believes that the American Revolution was the most radical and far-reaching event in American history. Before the revolution even began radical thoughts and ideas about things swept through the colonies. Through the Enlightenment and Great Awakening new ways of thinking based on reason emerged and took tolls on the peoples beliefs. Thinkers such as Ben Franklin noted that the government was more of Like a business and man-made sort of structure. This was a very a radical idea which went against the prevailing way of running countries through a monarchy. Once people conceived of a government as an artificial, then it became much less sacred and much more susceptible to criticism and even overthrow. We will write a custom essay sample on Gordon Wood American Revolution or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The Revolution also brought change within social standards and hierarchy.The colonists had long thought themselves loyal subjects of the British monarchy, and significantly, there was no well- established aristocracy In place on American soil. In short, the colonies developed a more egalitarian society than Europe. Gordon Wood has said, Although eighteenth century society was much tighter and less permeable than American mythology would have It, the topmost ranks of the social hierarchy certainly remained more permeable and open to entry from below than In the mother country. The rank of gentleman in America was 118).America was the place where someone born into a low-class or in poverty could still work his way up the social adder and make a name for him or herself. Leaders of the American Revolution can be best labeled and defined as conservatives because of the traditional way they lead their country and people. However during this time of a struggle for freedom and independence there were obvious disagreements over such ways to run the people or to collaborate. However, during the Revolution the most influential and important leaders did not lead by violent protests but rallied the colonists through patriotic speeches.Leaders and decision-makers collaborated and met to discuss the Issues h at colonial America must face. The result of these gatherings and formulation of new Ideas such as liberty, Independence, and freedom lead to the whole radical movement to what we know as the Revolution. These leaders helped to Implement a constitution of the colonists desires in America, which ultimately resulted in The Revolution brought together America and its people. People with completely different views came together to reach the common goal everyone shared which was to gain independence from Britain.The movement itself went completely against all forms that had been in place for so many years. The people realized that they had had enough with British Rule and thus devised a declaration of their own independence as a Constitution that would lay out Americans rights and liberties. Because the British were unwilling to give these rights, the Revolution became extremely radical. However, the most radical moment was actually after the Revolution was completed and the British had lost. At that moment, the safest thing to do would have been to make their own monarchy.