Fifteen months after the beginning of hostilities, the Second Continental Congress proclaimed American independence. Before 1775 the patriots generally desired to remain within the British Empire. As the war went on, the majority of them became convinced that their happiness was better assured outside the empire. They were driven to seek a complete separation by various forces and considerations: the shedding of blood by British troops; attacks by the British navy upon American shipping, sailors, and ports; the enlistment by Britain of African American soldiers, Native American auxiliaries, and German (Hessian) mercenary troops; the increasing conviction among the patriots that Britain would not accept an accommodation; the belief that if agreement with Britain were reached, it could not be relied upon; and a sound opinion that it was necessary to proclaim independence in order to secure assistance from France and Spain. They moved toward the assertion of independence reluctantly and hesitatingly. They felt an emotional attachment to Britain; they knew that the imperial connection had brought them protection; they feared that foreign aid might lead to foreign domination; and many of them were alarmed lest independence bring with it economic and social leveling. Independent, they must form a stable republican government in an area extending for a thousand miles along the Atlantic seaboard. Could it be done?
<h3>Two reasons why the Americans wanted their independence </h3>
1. The American Revolution was principally caused by colonial opposition to British attempts to impose greater control over the colonies and to make them repay the crown for its defense of them during the French and Indian War (1754–63).
2. It was propitiated by the political, military and ideological situation that Spain went through as a result of the power vacuum caused by Napoleon I Bonaparte's invasion of the Iberian Peninsula; and the suppression of the Bourbon dynasty due to the capture of the king.
<h3>➥ I hope I have helped you, greetings! </h3><h3>Atte: ღTheGirlSadღ </h3>
