Why did the colonists fight the British?

The colonists fought the British primarily due to high taxes imposed on them without their consent, which fueled their desire for independence. After the French and Indian War, the British government sought to recover its financial losses by taxing the colonies through measures like the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts. These taxes were particularly controversial because the colonists had no representation in the British Parliament, leading to the rallying cry of "No taxation without representation."

The resentment towards taxation and a lack of self-governance were key motivators for the colonists, sparking actions such as protests and boycotts, ultimately leading to the Revolutionary War. While land issues and loyalties may have played roles for some individuals, the galvanizing issue for the majority of the colonists was certainly rooted in their grievances over high taxes and the desire for autonomy from British rule.