The Boston Tea Party
Taxation without Representation
The King of Britain didn’t listen to the colonists’ demands. They wanted more money. So, on April 5, 1764, Parliament passed the Sugar Act. This act put a tax on sugar and molasses that were brought in from non-British foreign colonies, and lowered the tax on British goods, thereby forcing colonists to purchase the goods from the British West Indies.
The colonists didn’t think the British West Indies could produce enough molasses for their needs. This was particularly important for the rum makers, who relied on molasses to make their product.
The Sugar Act also put a tax on indigo. In Boston, some merchants decided to stop ordering fine clothing and other luxury goods from Britain. Some people figured the taxes would be lifted. But Britain was just getting started.
On March 22, 1765, Parliament passed the Stamp Act, which forced colonists to pay taxes on printed papers, newspapers, books, marriage licenses, legal contracts, and playing cards. In protest, angry colonists marched. The protests grew louder and larger as the summer went on. The Sons of Liberty, one of the most vocal groups, included lawyers, merchants, and master craftsmen. They published articles in newspapers or pamphlets. They read articles in loud taverns and other public places. On August 14, 1765, the Sons of Liberty met to protest the taxes and hung an image of the city’s stamp tax agent, Andrew Oliver, on a branch of a tree. The mob lit the image on fire. They marched to Oliver’s home and broke windows and tore down fences. They burst in the door, wanting to confront Oliver. Fortunately for him, he wasn’t there.
The Sons of Liberty also targeted other highly elected officials, such as Thomas Hutchinson, lieutenant governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. On August 26, a mob showed up at his home and smashed his door in with an ax. They looted everything they could, including clothing, silver, and paintings. Hutchinson managed to escape in the nick of time to a neighbor’s house.
Britain was shocked when they heard of the violence. They viewed America as a “rebellious child” who needed to be punished. But in the end, Britain repealed the Stamp Act on March 18, 1766. The protests were hurting British companies financially. However, the war over taxation without representation was far from over.
November 28, 1773
Charles brought Felicity outside to visit the stable, where he let her brush his horse, Mercury. Charles discusses how he’s had Mercury since he was a lad. Charles unlocks a cupboard and hands Felicity a document. It’s the bill of sale from when Uncle George purchased Mercury for Charles eight years ago.
Felicity notices a bumpy part on the paper. She asks Charles what it is. Frowning, he explains it’s British robbery. The Stamp Act required that all official paper, like bills of sales, needed extra tax paid on it. The stamp was proof that the tax was paid. Felicity is surprised to learn even playing cards needed the tax. It seems like a silly, petty law.
Charles explains that it’s all about greed. That’s the reason behind the King’s unfair taxes. Uncle George and Aunt Charlotte and others protested so hard that the Stamp Act was repealed. But the people of Boston haven’t forgotten it. And Britain keeps demanding other taxes, like the tax on tea.
Felicity sees it’s no wonder the Patriots’ anger is boiling over. And her sympathy for the Patriots’ cause is growing stronger, too.