Early National Literature in America was influenced by the country's struggle for independence. The Enlightenment movement in Europe questioned divine monarchy and spread ideas of rationalism and reason over revelation. Inspired by these ideas, America's founders created a new nation with ideals of religious tolerance and individual liberty. Tensions rose as Britain passed taxes like the Stamp Act to raise revenue from the colonies, leading to events like the Boston Tea Party, and ultimately the American Revolution and independence.

1. A Nation is Born Early National Literature is based on America’s struggle for independence.

10. Important Writers of the Time The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin Poor Richard’s Almanack Benjamin Franklin Thomas Jefferson The Declaration of Independence “ Common Sense” Thomas Paine

11. Important Writers of the Time Olaudah Equiano Slave Narrative: The Life of Olaudah Equiano

12. Important Writers of the Time Poet Phillis Wheatley Statue Located in Boston Abigail Smith Adams Wrote letters to her husband, John Adams, about their lives, her political opinions, her desire for women’s rights and an end to slavery. First African-American woman published in the U.S.

13. Important Writers of the Time Patrick Henry Give me liberty or give me death! "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, Give me Liberty, or give me Death! "

14. Your Turn! With a partner, discuss and answer the following questions in a word document saved as an rtf file and attach it in an e-mail to burksamericanlit@ gmail .com Your names and the assignment name: A Nation is Born should be in the subject line. Please number the questions correctly so proper credit can be given. Answers can be found on this powerpoint, in your textbook, or online. This is a partner assignment. The instructors will be watching to see that both partners are participating because a participation grade will be awarded as well.

15. 1. What is the main theme of Early National Literature and by what specific event(s)was it influenced? 2. Define the Enlightenment movement, which influenced the rationalists’ thinking. 3. Explain what rationalists believe. How is that belief applied to religious tolerance and freedom today? You may want to give a specific example to explain the second question. 4. The Stamp Act placed taxes on 54 items. Research the Stamp Act and find one item that was taxed that would have affected the writers of the period. Copy and paste it for your answer. (Hint: Google Stamp Act’s 54 items) 5. Name something else Benjamin Franklin is remembered for in his life besides writing. GO to next slide

16. 6. Define slave narrative. 7. What was one unusual circumstance about Phillis Wheatley’s slave life compared to other slaves? 8. Explain what Patrick Henry means by his famous line: "Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, Give me Liberty, or give me Death! ” YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE QUESTIONS! MAKE SURE YOU FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR SAVING AND SUBMITTING!