Final answer:
The primary cause of the American Revolution was British efforts to exert more control over its American colonies through legislative acts, which incited resistance among colonists seeking autonomy and rights akin to those of British citizens, alongside merchant desires for economic freedom and opposition to land appropriation limitations.
Step-by-step explanation:
A principal cause of the American Revolution was British efforts to consolidate control over its colonies. This was seen through various legislative acts imposed by the British Parliament, which were met with resistance from the colonists. The desire of colonial elites for the same rights as their British counterparts, including the power to levy their own taxes and resistance to the Crown, was a significant political factor. Additionally, merchants were primarily concerned with economic freedoms and objected to British trade restrictions and taxes. Others opposed British attempts to limit westward expansion and Native American land appropriation. All these elements contributed to the rising tensions that led to the Revolution.
Discussing the broader context, the British government considered the taxes they imposed reasonable because they needed to cover the debts incurred during the Seven Years' War and to maintain the colonies. During the Revolution, many Indians and blacks sided with the British, who promised them freedom and protection of their lands. After the Revolution, the writing of the Bill of Rights was prompted by the need to protect individual liberties and to address the grievances that had contributed to the call for independence.
The American Revolution was not just a struggle for independence but also a complex mix of economic, political, and ideological disputes deeply rooted in the emerging American society.