Why did the colonists fight the British?

The primary reason the colonists fought the British was to gain independence from British rule. This desire was fueled by various grievances, including the lack of representation in Parliament and the imposition of taxes without local consent. While high taxes were certainly a significant factor that contributed to colonial discontent, they were part of a larger issue of colonial autonomy and self-governance.

The colonists believed that they should have control over their own affairs, which included having a say in the laws and taxes that affected them. This sentiment culminated in the desire to break free from British authority, leading to the pursuit of independence. Thus, although high taxes were an important aspect of the conflict, they were not the sole reason for the wider struggle for autonomy that characterized the American Revolutionary War. Understanding this context highlights the broader objective of independence that drove the colonists in their fight against British rule.