Why did the colonists fight the British?

The colonists fought the British primarily for freedom, which encapsulated their desire for independence from British rule and the pursuit of self-governance. Many colonists were frustrated with British policies, taxes imposed without representation, and other restrictions that prioritized British interests over the rights and freedoms of the colonists. This struggle for freedom encompassed various dimensions, including the desire to create a government that reflected their own interests and values rather than being subject to the decisions of a distant monarchy.

While the desire for economic gain and territorial expansion were factors in different contexts, they were not the main reasons that united the colonists in their fight against British authority. The overarching theme of the conflict was rooted in the call for political representation and autonomy, signifying a clear demand for freedom from oppressive governance. This led the colonists to seek independence, which they ultimately declared in 1776.