1776: Did we have a ' real revolution' in what became the USA or was it a successful revolt against British colonization?

Henry H. Bucher, Jr.

When most of us think about “revolutions” in recent history, France and Russia come to mind, both ending in the public death of their own autocratic leaders. Our so-called ‘revolution’ was a successful revolt for independence from British colonialism. During our revolt, we had the support of Dutch, Spanish and French forces while the British hired German mercenaries (Hessians).

Under French command, Haitian forces were gaining skills to execute the first successful slave revolt by 1802. Indeed, many historians believe that our revolt inspired many other revolutions to come-- especially the French and Russian. In the 1960s, many European colonies gained their freedom, often by military revolts.

One way of describing what happened in the USA is to see it as beginning a “process in evolution.” We celebrate July 4 because it was the signing the Declaration of(political) Independence from Britain; but Africain US-Americans were still enslaved. They had no vote, nor did women and indigenous nations/ethnic groups.

Along with celebrating our independence from Britain and the beginnings of a liberating process for most of our population, the United States of America should pledge to work harder for “freedom and justice for all.”

As we approach our 2024 elections in November, this may not happen. Hopefully, it will encourage more citizens to not give up on the evolution of our much needed liberating process.