Why did the colonists fight the British?

The primary reason the colonists fought the British was their desire for independence, which encompasses a range of grievances, including high taxes. While taxes were a significant factor—exemplified by laws like the Stamp Act and the Tea Act—this monetary burden was part of a broader context of colonial frustration with British rule. The colonists believed that they should have a say in their governance and should not be subject to taxes imposed by a distant parliament in which they had no representation. This notion of "no taxation without representation" became a rallying cry and ultimately fueled the desire for complete independence from British control, as they felt that the relationship was unjust and exploitative.

The other choices reflect valid grievances that contributed to the colonists’ frustrations but are not the central reason for the conflict. For instance, the presence of British troops in their homes and dislike for British culture were issues that added to the tension, but the overarching motive driving the revolutionary spirit was the pursuit of independence and self-governance. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes this broader desire rather than focusing solely on one specific grievance like taxation.