The rationale behind the American colonies’ quest for independence from British rule stemmed from a combination of taxation without representation, oppressive laws, and the desire for self-governance. Colonists believed they were entitled to the same rights as English citizens but were consistently denied those rights. The Boston Tea Party and other acts of resistance illustrated their growing frustration. Enlightenment ideals of liberty and democracy also fueled their desire for separation, leading to the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.