Your question does not make it clear whether one should refer to the positive and negatives outcomes of the conflict or if the focus should be on the pros and cons of the war itself, i.e. whilst it was being fought.
There were major political, economic and social effects, both negative and positive, during, and as a consequence of, the Revolution:
Pros:
American Independence:The country was finally free of British rule. States could now...
Your question does not make it clear whether one should refer to the positive and negatives outcomes of the conflict or if the focus should be on the pros and cons of the war itself, i.e. whilst it was being fought.
There were major political, economic and social effects, both negative and positive, during, and as a consequence of, the Revolution:
Pros:
American Independence: The country was finally free of British rule. States could now work together and express their autonomy. They now had the opportunity for self-determination and could establish their own laws.
The drafting of the Constitution: This is one of the major results of the conflict since it drove the states to draw up a charter which expressed the fundamental rights of all of its citizens. This has become the cornerstone for governance.
The growth of American nationalism: Americans were unified in their fight against British domination. It was essential that they share a common purpose in order to defeat the British.
Unity: The states were unified and were determined to form a unitary government which eventually led to the formation of the United States of America.
The separation of church and state: These two institutions were inalienably linked prior to the revolution. Once independence had been achieved, it was decided that the they should be separated. One had no influence on the other. This separation became a fundamental tenet of the constitution.
Positive changes in the attitude to women: Women had to assume greater responsibilities during the conflict and this resulted in greater respect and regard for them after the war. They were deemed more the equal of men and respected for their significant contributions in winning the war.
Positive effect on attitudes to slavery: Many of the northern states adopted anti-slavery legislation after the war. In a few of the southern states slaves were set free or allowed to buy their freedom. The revolution introduced more liberal thinking and the principles of emancipation found greater relevance in the minds of the populace.
Cons:
Division over the war: The revolution created much conflict within families, communities and between states about the purpose of the conflict. Many were loyalists whilst others were neutral and others, of course, were determined to fight for freedom. As a result, these differences of opinion led to dissension and dispute during, and even after, the war.
Financial loss: The war had been an expensive venture for both sides. States had to make huge loans to finance the conflict and found themselves in huge debt after the conflagration. The immense cost would result in massive deflation and a valueless currency which would also lead to economic depression.
Negative impact on commerce: America lost a major trading partner in Britain. Trade between the two countries came to a standstill. Even though America could freely trade with other countries, the economic losses were of such magnitude that it would result in depression.
Economic depression: Since Congress could not pay most of its debts, many individuals lost faith in their new government. Debtors were demanding the repayment of debts which forced Congress to demand dues from states which refused to pay. States raised taxes to pay their own war debts. Money all over the country was in desperately short supply.
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