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American Revolution Global Influence — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This engaging U.S. History reading passage explores how the American Revolution influenced revolutions around the world, inspiring movements for liberty and democracy in France, Haiti, and Latin America. Students will analyze the spread of revolutionary ideas, the impact on global societies, and the complexities of challenging monarchies. The passage includes discipline-specific vocabulary such as revolution, influence, democracy, and inspiration, and is designed to support historical analysis and comprehension. Activities align with HSS 5.6.6 and 8.2, as well as Common Core standards CCSS.RI.6-8.1 and RI.6-8.6. The resource features a Spanish translation, differentiated reading level version, glossary, timeline, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, and graphic organizers. An audio read aloud is also available, making this passage accessible for diverse learners seeking to connect U.S. events with global historical change.

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[Scenes from events and battles leading up to and during the American Revolution, 1775-1783, as depicted in 12 illustrations].
Source: Library of Congress - Berger, D. (Daniel), 1744-1825

The American Revolution was a turning point in world history. After thirteen British colonies in North America declared their independence in 1776, the world watched a new nation form based on ideas of liberty, equality, and democracy. These revolutionary ideas did not remain in America. Instead, they spread across continents, inspiring other people to challenge old systems of government and fight for their own rights.

One of the most significant ways the American Revolution made an influence was by serving as an example to others. The success of the Americans in gaining independence from a powerful empire showed that it was possible for ordinary people to stand up against kings and monarchies. This inspired leaders and common people in other countries to believe that their societies could also change.

Soon after the American Revolution, France was in crisis. The French government faced financial problems, food shortages, and growing anger from its citizens. Many French people admired the American colonists’ struggle for freedom. In 1789, the French Revolution began. French revolutionaries adopted the American language of “rights” and “freedom.” Thomas Jefferson, who helped write the American Declaration of Independence, served as the U.S. ambassador to France and shared American ideas directly with French leaders. The French Revolution, however, became much more violent and complex, with severe internal conflicts and a struggle to define who should have power.

The American Revolution also influenced the Haitian Revolution. In Haiti, which was then a French colony called Saint-Domingue, enslaved Africans heard about the American and French struggles for liberty. In 1791, they began their own rebellion. The Haitian Revolution was unique because it was led by enslaved people who overthrew both their colonial rulers and the system of slavery. This made Haiti the first independent Black republic and the first nation to abolish slavery in the Americas.

Latin America was another region deeply affected by the American example. Leaders like Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín were inspired by the principles of self-government and independence. They read documents like the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence while planning their own revolutions. Between 1808 and 1826, many countries in South and Central America fought wars for independence from Spain and Portugal. While these revolutions promised liberty and equality, many new nations struggled to provide true democracy for all their citizens.

Despite their differences, these world revolutions shared a common inspiration. Each movement challenged the authority of monarchies and old governments. However, not all outcomes were the same. Some revolutions, like in France, led to more violence and new dictatorships. Others, like in Haiti, faced isolation from other nations because of racism and fear of more slave revolts. Still, the spread of American revolutionary ideas forever changed the world by planting the seeds of democracy and human rights.

Today, historians debate which revolution had the greatest impact. However, it is clear that the American Revolution was a starting point for a wave of world-changing movements. The legacy of these revolutions can be seen in modern governments and the ongoing struggle for equality and freedom.

Interesting Fact: The phrase “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” from the American Declaration of Independence was translated and used in other revolutionary documents around the world.

When did the American colonies declare independence?

1776178917911808

Which revolution was led by enslaved people?

American RevolutionFrench RevolutionHaitian RevolutionLatin American Revolution

Who shared American ideas in France?

Simón BolívarThomas JeffersonJosé de San MartínNapoleon

Why were the French inspired by America?

For new foodsFor freedom and rightsFor tradeFor territory

How did American ideas reach Latin America?

Through trading goodsLeaders read U.S. documentsThrough warThrough art

What was a common goal of these revolutions?

To support kingsTo spread slaveryTo gain libertyTo increase taxes