What was a key issue leading to the Revolutionary War?

A key issue leading to the Revolutionary War was taxation without representation. This principle became a rallying cry for the American colonies as they opposed the British government’s imposition of taxes, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, without allowing them any voice or representation in the British Parliament. Colonists felt they should not be taxed by a government in which they had no representation, encapsulating their desire for self-governance and fair treatment.

The concept of taxation without representation underscored the broader conflicts regarding British control and the colonies' rights. It was instrumental in uniting various groups within the colonies around a common grievance against perceived injustice and ultimately spurred the quest for independence. This issue mobilized public sentiment and fostered revolutionary ideals, leading to calls for action against British authority and significantly contributing to the outbreak of the Revolutionary War.