Answer 1
ANSWER: Have students examine why British efforts failed and where they might have acted differently. Some students may wish to focus on military issues, such as Burgoyne's failed invasion or Cornwallis's campaign in the South. Others may wish to look a little more deeply, tying military issues with political goals, suggesting ways to cripple Washington's army while working on a negotiated settlement. Others may prefer to focus strictly on diplomatic issues, such as an agreement with the colonies while working to make sure that other European nations would not join the war. Push the students to examine the ramifications of their decisions and how political realities would influence the options the British had.
Answer 2
ANSWER: Students should recognize that the results were mixed. The war strengthened notions of the sanctity of private property. It did not eliminate property qualifications for voting, but it did provide increased opportunities for political participation. Although the postwar economic situation was bleak, many poorer whites received land bounties for enlistment, greatly improving their situation.