What is one reason the colonists wanted independence from Britain?

The desire for independence from Britain stemmed significantly from the colonists' dissatisfaction with British laws and governance. Many colonists felt that British laws were imposed without adequate representation, leading to grievances such as taxation without representation. They believed that these laws were unfair and infringed on their rights as English subjects. The increasing number of regulations and taxes enforced by the British Parliament, such as the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts, intensified feelings of resentment and the belief that independence was necessary to achieve self-governance and protect their liberties.

While the other options touch on important aspects of colonist dissatisfaction, they are more specific or secondary motivations. For instance, the desire to trade freely (while an important issue) is part of the broader dissatisfaction with British control rather than a standalone reason for seeking independence. Religious freedom was also a factor for some, particularly specific groups; however, it was not the primary reason for the revolution as a whole. Lastly, the promise of land in the west pertains more to post-revolutionary expansion rather than the immediate causes of independence. Thus, the overarching issue of dissatisfaction with British laws encapsulates a core reason for the push for independence.