“American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism.” Substantiate.

Theme

T22 American & French Revolutions and their legacy

What UPSC asks in this theme

Questions ask about the American Revolution as an economic revolt against mercantilism and the French Revolution's continuing relevance.

What to cover

• Mercantilism and the colonies: Navigation Acts, Stamp Act, Townshend duties
• Ideas: no taxation without representation, natural rights, Declaration of Independence
• French Revolution: causes, Declaration of the Rights of Man, end of feudalism
• Legacy: liberty, equality, fraternity in democracy, nationalism, human rights — including in India's Preamble

Writing the answer

• For 'relevance today', match each revolutionary idea with a present institution or debate

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 2 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.