Final answer:
Historians categorize the American Revolution in different ways: some view it as a colonial rebellion for independence, while others see it as a radical social upheaval for democracy and equality. The Revolution brought about social and economic reforms and is viewed differently depending on the historian's perspective.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historians categorize revolutionary phases in different ways. One way is through the lens of political ideology. Some historians view the American Revolution as primarily a colonial rebellion seeking independence from Britain and maintaining the status quo. Others see it as a radical social upheaval driven by a class conflict, with lower classes aiming for greater democracy and equality. George Bancroft's History of the United States presents the Revolution as a unifying quest for liberty against British tyranny.
Another way to categorize revolutionary phases is through socio-economic factors. Progressive historians argue that economic and social issues were root causes of the Revolution. The Revolution brought about radical changes in American society, such as land redistribution, abolition of slavery in some states, religious freedom, lower property qualifications for voting, and disestablishment of the Anglican Church.
Overall, historians' interpretations continue to vary, and the Revolution remains a topic of ongoing research and debate.