Final answer:
Freedoms were being impacted by both oppressive taxes and the presence of British soldiers who imposed economic burdens and raised fears about physical and property security. The correct answer to the student's question is c. both a and b
Step-by-step explanation:
Freedoms were being impacted during the American Revolution for a couple of key reasons. Firstly, the imposition of taxes limited the colonists' freedom as they were often seen as oppressive, particularly since they were on luxury goods or trade. Additionally, the need to fund the British army in the colonies led to new taxes or the stricter enforcement of existing ones. Secondly, the presence of British soldiers in the colonies made life difficult for the Americans. There were practical difficulties associated with the Quartering Act, which forced colonists to provide housing and sustenance to soldiers, but there were also broader fears surrounding the possibility of property confiscation, plundering, and physical assault. Moreover, troops on the frontier impacted economic and personal security.
Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is c. both a and b as both the economic burden of taxes and the military presence of soldiers hindered the colonists' sense of security and autonomy, contributing to the sentiments that fueled the desire for independence.