3. Being a British American

Introduction and Colonial Anecdotes00:00:01

The professor compares the previous lecture on British colonists with today's topic: being a British American. He uses excerpts from Dr. Alexander Hamilton's 1744 diary to illustrate colonial life, including the Great Awakening, social status interactions, ethnic and religious diversity, and colonial pride.

The Character of Migrants00:12:38

The first reason colonists differed was the distinctive character of those who migrated. They were risk-takers willing to leave everything behind to start anew, making them independent and less likely to accept the status quo compared to tradition-bound Britons.

Conditions of Life in British America00:15:00

The second reason involves living conditions. More colonists owned land than in England, leading to a broader voting franchise (60-80% vs 20% of white men). Political participation was localized and personal. Social structures were more of a 'middling society' with less contrast between rich and poor, and several generations had lived without personal ties to England.

Religiosity and the Great Awakening00:24:12

The Great Awakening (1730s-1760s) heightened religiosity. Preachers like Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield emphasized personal choice, spiritual equality, and individual empowerment, acting as a democratizing and anti-authoritarian force that encouraged political resistance.

British Colonial Administration00:33:46

The third reason is the light-handed nature of British administration. This allowed strong colonial legislatures to develop and fight for English liberties. By the 1760s, colonies had the institutions necessary for self-governance, fostering an independent spirit and jealousy of their own power.

Summary and Transition00:35:29

The lecture concludes by summarizing the 'British American' mindset: entitlement to property, willingness to take risks, independent spirit, and tolerance for diversity. The professor sets up the next lecture on intercolonial relations and the upcoming tension caused by the Stamp Act.