Independence: The state of being free from outside control or domination. After experiencing life under British rule, the American colonists desired independence.
Tyranny: The abuse of power by a governing authority, often resulting in oppression and lack of individual freedoms. Fears of tyranny influenced the development of safeguards against a strong central government in the U.S. Constitution.
Revolutionary War: A war fought by Americans against Great Britain to gain independence. The experiences during this war further solidified concerns about a centralized government and influenced constitutional development.