One of the enduring puzzles of the American Revolution is how American colonists, once loyal to the king and enthusiastically attached to their status as British subjects, could by 1776 stand willing to declare their independence and wage a war to secure it. This five-session seminar uses primary sources to examine the principles and philosophies that formed the basis of American colonists’ loyalty to Britain as well as their protests against measures instituted by Parliament in the aftermath of the 1754-63 French and Indian War. It examines the escalation of the imperial crisis, the efficacy of Britain’s responses to colonial resistance, and the difficulties armed conflict posed for both the British Army and troops fighting for the self-declared independent United States, which seemingly surmounted great odds to defeat (or at least outlast) the most powerful military in the world. 

• Historic Site: Old Fort Niagara
• Hotel: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Gather with a small group of teachers from around the country for three days immersed in discussion and exploration of a single topic in American history. Multi-Day Seminars are a free opportunity for teachers hosted near an important historical site. Teachers will prepare ahead of time for seminars by reading selected historical documents in the provided course packet. Once the seminar begins, the discussion leader guides a peer-to-peer, text-based conversation among all participants. Meals, materials, single-occupancy rooms, and historical site visits are 100% covered by Teaching American History. At the end of each course, every teacher receives a letter of participation for fifteen contact hours of continuing education and a stipend of $600 to help defray travel costs.