What was the primary cause of the American Revolution?

The primary cause of the American Revolution was taxation without representation. This phrase encapsulates the frustration of American colonists who felt that they were being unfairly taxed by the British Parliament—where they had no elected representatives. The imposition of taxes, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, ignited widespread protest among the colonists, as they believed that it was unjust to be taxed without a voice in the legislative process. This feeling of disenfranchisement fueled a growing desire for self-governance and played a crucial role in the rallying cry for independence from Britain.

Although restriction of trade opportunities and opposition to the British monarchy were also contributing factors, they were often linked back to the larger issue of representation and autonomy. The desire for westward expansion became more significant after the Revolution and was not a central factor in the early outbreak of hostilities. Understanding this context helps clarify how taxation without representation served as a rallying point for a diverse coalition of colonists who sought to assert their rights and challenge British authority.