Social
The American Revolution had very important social causes. The presence of Colonial Legislatures, the ideologies presented by the Enlightenment philosophers, and the salutary neglect are all causes of Revolution.
The presences of colonial legislatures meant that the colonies were in many ways independent of the crown. The legislatures were allowed to charge taxes, assemble armies, and pass laws. Over time, these powers became rights in the eyes of many colonists. When they were reduced by the British, conflict emerged. The future leaders of the United States were born in these legislatures. Many of the revolutionary leaders had studied major writings of the Enlightenment including those of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and the Baron de Montesquieu. From these writings, the founders extracted the concepts of the social contract, limited government, the consent of the governed, and separation of powers. Although the British believed in mercantilism, Prime Minister Robert Walpole adopted a view of “salutary neglect.” (K. Martin) This was a system in which the enforcement of international trade relations was negligent. He believed this increased freedom and would stimulate worldwide commerce.
The presences of colonial legislatures meant that the colonies were in many ways independent of the crown. The legislatures were allowed to charge taxes, assemble armies, and pass laws. Over time, these powers became rights in the eyes of many colonists. When they were reduced by the British, conflict emerged. The future leaders of the United States were born in these legislatures. Many of the revolutionary leaders had studied major writings of the Enlightenment including those of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and the Baron de Montesquieu. From these writings, the founders extracted the concepts of the social contract, limited government, the consent of the governed, and separation of powers. Although the British believed in mercantilism, Prime Minister Robert Walpole adopted a view of “salutary neglect.” (K. Martin) This was a system in which the enforcement of international trade relations was negligent. He believed this increased freedom and would stimulate worldwide commerce.
Kelly, Martin. "What Caused the American Revolution?" History. History.com, n.d. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.