Course Introduction
Freedom250: The Making of American Independence is a four-session course exploring the historical developments that led to American independence. Participants will look at colonial life, Britain’s relationship with the colonies, growing tensions after the Seven Years’ War, forms of resistance, and the ideas behind the Declaration of Independence. The course is designed to provide historical context and encourage discussion about how the Revolution developed over time.
About the Speaker
Justin L. Vipperman is an assistant professor of history at the College of Southern Idaho (CSI). He holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Idaho State University and a master’s degree in History and Public History from Portland State University. Vipperman is currently working on an interdisciplinary doctorate in Political Science and History. He is a fifth generation Idahoan whose great-grandparents settled in Wendell as farmer laborers and sheepherders. He often credits his love of history to his maternal grandfather who stopped at every historical marker throughout Idaho and expounded on its history. Vipperman serves on the Idaho Humanities Council, St. Luke’s Foundation Board, Preservation Twin Falls, and was recently appointed by Governor Brad Little as a trustee to the Idaho State Historical Society. He lives in Wendell with his wife and mayor Rebecca Vipperman and three children. He spends most of his time fly fishing and documenting history in the Magic Valley.
Course Schedule
Each session takes place at 19:00 MSK.
June 10. From Colonies to Independence
June 17. The Seven Years’ War, Taxation, and Representation
June 24. Resistance!
July 3. The Declaration of Independence
Session 1. From Colonies to Independence
This session explores how Britain’s North American colonies developed strong traditions of local self-government under a system of “salutary neglect.” Participants will examine how colonial assemblies, regional differences, and relative autonomy shaped political expectations. By the mid-18th century, many colonists saw themselves as loyal British subjects, but also as communities accustomed to governing their own affairs. This foundation helps explain why later imperial reforms felt intrusive and illegitimate.
Session 2. The Seven Years’ War, Taxation, and Representation
Focusing on the aftermath of the Seven Years’ War, this session examines how Britain’s victory created new financial burdens and administrative challenges. Participants will consider how British efforts to tighten control and raise revenue clashed with colonial expectations. The war marks a critical turning point, transforming the imperial relationship from one of relative flexibility to one of increased oversight and tension.
Session 3. Resistance!
This session will analyze the escalating conflict sparked by new taxes such as the Stamp Act and Townshend Acts. Participants will explore the emergence of organized resistance, including boycotts, protests, and ideological arguments centered on rights and representation. Events like the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party illustrate how tensions between colonists and British authority became increasingly volatile, shifting the debate from policy disagreements to fundamental questions about power and rights.
Session 4. The Declaration of Independence
The final session examines the political and philosophical culmination of these developments in the Declaration of Independence. Participants will analyze its key ideas of natural rights, government by consent, and the right of revolution, while also considering its strategic purpose as a document aimed at both domestic and international audiences. This module emphasizes that independence was not inevitable, but the result of escalating conflict, shifting ideas, and contingent decisions.