1. Taxation without representation: The colonists argued that they were being heavily taxed by the British government without having any say or representation in the decisions being made. The Stamp Act, Sugar Act, and Townshend Acts were seen as oppression and a violation of their rights as British subjects.
2. Economic restrictions: The British government imposed various regulations and trade restrictions on the colonies, such as the Navigation Acts and the Proclamation of 1763, which limited their ability to trade freely with other nations or expand their territory beyond the Appalachian Mountains. The colonists believed that they could prosper economically if freed from these restrictions.
3. Natural rights and self-government: Influenced by Enlightenment ideas, the colonists emphasized the principles of natural rights, particularly the right to life, liberty, and property. They argued that these rights were being infringed upon by the British government, and that they should have the ability to govern themselves and make their own laws.
4. Violation of colonial charters: Many colonies had been granted charters by the British crown, which established their legal rights and self-governing powers. The colonists argued that the British government was violating these charters by imposing direct rule and interfering with their local governments.
5. Coercive acts and military presence: The British responded to acts of colonial resistance, such as the Boston Tea Party, by passing a series of coercive acts (Intolerable Acts) to punish Massachusetts. These acts included shutting down the port of Boston, quartering British soldiers in private homes, and restricting town meetings. Colonists saw these acts as a direct assault on their rights and freedom.
6. Dissatisfaction with British rule: Over time, many colonists developed a growing sense of identity as Americans and felt disconnected from the British government. They believed that they could better govern themselves and make decisions that aligned with their own interests rather than being subject to rule from a distant power.
7. Desire for political representation: Ultimately, the colonists wanted greater political representation. They believed that, as Englishmen, they were entitled to the same rights and liberties as those living in Britain. They wanted the ability to have a voice in their own government and to make decisions that affected their lives directly.