What was a primary reason the American colonists fought against the British?

The primary reason the American colonists fought against the British was the issue of high taxes and lack of representation. This sentiment was rooted in the belief that it was unfair for the British government to impose taxes on the colonies without giving them a voice in the decision-making process. The slogan "no taxation without representation" captured this grievance, highlighting the colonists' desire for participation in the British Parliament or at least a say in how taxes were determined.

While other factors such as a desire for territorial expansion and the quest for religious freedom played roles in the broader narrative of the colonies, they were not the central motivating forces behind the revolutionary movement. Similarly, alliances—such as those formed with France—emerged later in the conflict as the war progressed, rather than being a fundamental cause of the initial discontent that led to rebellion. The combination of economic strain from imposed taxes and the political demand for representation ultimately galvanized the colonists to seek independence from British rule.