1755–1800 - AP U.S. History
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"Political liberty, the great Montesquieu again observes, consists in security, or at least in the opinion we have of security; and this security therefore, or the opinion, is best obtained in moderate governments, where the mildness of the laws, and the equality of the manners, beget a confidence in the people, which produces this security, or the opinion. This moderation in governments, depends in a great measure on their limits, connected with their political distribution."
The author of this piece is likely a member of which political group?
"Political liberty, the great Montesquieu again observes, consists in security, or at least in the opinion we have of security; and this security therefore, or the opinion, is best obtained in moderate governments, where the mildness of the laws, and the equality of the manners, beget a confidence in the people, which produces this security, or the opinion. This moderation in governments, depends in a great measure on their limits, connected with their political distribution."
The author of this piece is likely a member of which political group?
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The excerpt is written by Cato, an Anti-federalist. The author is arguing for moderate and limited governments. These were key positions of people opposed to the new federal constitution. These concerns are mostly reflected in the Bill of Rights, which emerged from the ratification debates.
The excerpt is written by Cato, an Anti-federalist. The author is arguing for moderate and limited governments. These were key positions of people opposed to the new federal constitution. These concerns are mostly reflected in the Bill of Rights, which emerged from the ratification debates.
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Yet sorrowful it is, that many there are in Membership with us, who, notwithstanding the Labour bestow'd still continue to hold these People as Slaves under the Consideration whereof we are deeply affected, and United in Judgement, that we are loudly called upon to a faithful Obedience to the Injunction of our blessed Lord "to do all Men as we would they should do unto us" and to bear a clear testimony to these truths that "God is no respecter of Persons" and that "Christ died for all Men without distinction," which we earnestly and affectionately entreat may be duly consider'd in the awful and alarming Dispensation, and excite to impartial justice and judgment to black and white, rich and poor.
Passage adapted from "Society of Friends: Extracts from the Minutes of the Yearly Meeting," (September 23-28, 1776)
Which of the provided labels likely describes the author of this passage?
Yet sorrowful it is, that many there are in Membership with us, who, notwithstanding the Labour bestow'd still continue to hold these People as Slaves under the Consideration whereof we are deeply affected, and United in Judgement, that we are loudly called upon to a faithful Obedience to the Injunction of our blessed Lord "to do all Men as we would they should do unto us" and to bear a clear testimony to these truths that "God is no respecter of Persons" and that "Christ died for all Men without distinction," which we earnestly and affectionately entreat may be duly consider'd in the awful and alarming Dispensation, and excite to impartial justice and judgment to black and white, rich and poor.
Passage adapted from "Society of Friends: Extracts from the Minutes of the Yearly Meeting," (September 23-28, 1776)
Which of the provided labels likely describes the author of this passage?
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Abolitionists believed that the slave trade should end and the slaves should be set free. Slavery posed special problems for Quakers, one of whom wrote this passage, because they strove to lead sinless lives. For Quakers, as for many later abolitionists, slavery could never be reconciled with the Golden Rule or with the other bedrock Judeo-Christian precept that God "is no respecter of Persons" — or in other words, that worldly titles, status, and privilege do not matter in the ultimate scheme of things.
Abolitionists believed that the slave trade should end and the slaves should be set free. Slavery posed special problems for Quakers, one of whom wrote this passage, because they strove to lead sinless lives. For Quakers, as for many later abolitionists, slavery could never be reconciled with the Golden Rule or with the other bedrock Judeo-Christian precept that God "is no respecter of Persons" — or in other words, that worldly titles, status, and privilege do not matter in the ultimate scheme of things.
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In the name of the most holy and undivided Trinity. It having pleased the Divine Providence to dispose the hearts of the most serene and most potent Prince George the Third ... king of Great Britain, France, and Ireland ... and of the United States of America, to forget all past misunderstandings and differences that have unhappily interrupted the good correspondence and friendship which they mutually wish to restore, and to establish such a beneficial and satisfactory intercourse , between the two countries upon the ground of reciprocal advantages and mutual convenience as may promote and secure to both perpetual peace and harmony.
What is the most likely source of this passage?
In the name of the most holy and undivided Trinity. It having pleased the Divine Providence to dispose the hearts of the most serene and most potent Prince George the Third ... king of Great Britain, France, and Ireland ... and of the United States of America, to forget all past misunderstandings and differences that have unhappily interrupted the good correspondence and friendship which they mutually wish to restore, and to establish such a beneficial and satisfactory intercourse , between the two countries upon the ground of reciprocal advantages and mutual convenience as may promote and secure to both perpetual peace and harmony.
What is the most likely source of this passage?
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On September 3, 1783, two years after the Revolutionary War ended, the United States of America was officially recognized as a free nation by Great Britain. Delegates from America and Great Britain met in Paris to make it official. In addition to declaring the United States a free state, boundaries were set, and important rights to fish the Grand Banks off the coast of Nova Scotia were protected for the Americans.
On September 3, 1783, two years after the Revolutionary War ended, the United States of America was officially recognized as a free nation by Great Britain. Delegates from America and Great Britain met in Paris to make it official. In addition to declaring the United States a free state, boundaries were set, and important rights to fish the Grand Banks off the coast of Nova Scotia were protected for the Americans.
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"An attack was made on Thursday last by a party of Insurgents under Shays, upon the troops commanded by General Shephard, at Springfield—previous to the attack, upon the approach of the Insurgents, General Shephard sent messages to them at three several times, informing them that if they advanced he should assuredly fire on them—Mr. Shays replied, he was resolved to proceed and sleep that night in the barracks, and continued to advance.—General Shephard then ordered several cannon to be discharged on their right and left, but they still advanced; he then ordered the pieces to be leveled against the insurgents, at which time they were within 55 rods; as soon as they were discharged, the insurgents fled with the utmost precipitation—One of the men who managed the cannon, was by accident dangerously wounded—Four of the insurgents were killed, and a number wounded."
Hampshire Gazette, January 1787
Which of the following groups would likely align with the "Insurgents under Shays" described in the article excerpted above?
"An attack was made on Thursday last by a party of Insurgents under Shays, upon the troops commanded by General Shephard, at Springfield—previous to the attack, upon the approach of the Insurgents, General Shephard sent messages to them at three several times, informing them that if they advanced he should assuredly fire on them—Mr. Shays replied, he was resolved to proceed and sleep that night in the barracks, and continued to advance.—General Shephard then ordered several cannon to be discharged on their right and left, but they still advanced; he then ordered the pieces to be leveled against the insurgents, at which time they were within 55 rods; as soon as they were discharged, the insurgents fled with the utmost precipitation—One of the men who managed the cannon, was by accident dangerously wounded—Four of the insurgents were killed, and a number wounded."
Hampshire Gazette, January 1787
Which of the following groups would likely align with the "Insurgents under Shays" described in the article excerpted above?
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The passage describes part of the events known as Shay's Rebellion in 1786 and 1787. It involved the uprising of debt-ridden farmers, primarily in Massachusetts. The rebellion was led by Daniel Shays, a former captain during the American Revolution. The rebellion was heavily influenced by the severe economic conditions of the time.
The passage describes part of the events known as Shay's Rebellion in 1786 and 1787. It involved the uprising of debt-ridden farmers, primarily in Massachusetts. The rebellion was led by Daniel Shays, a former captain during the American Revolution. The rebellion was heavily influenced by the severe economic conditions of the time.
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"An attack was made on Thursday last by a party of Insurgents under Shays, upon the troops commanded by General Shephard, at Springfield—previous to the attack, upon the approach of the Insurgents, General Shephard sent messages to them at three several times, informing them that if they advanced he should assuredly fire on them—Mr. Shays replied, he was resolved to proceed and sleep that night in the barracks, and continued to advance.—General Shephard then ordered several cannon to be discharged on their right and left, but they still advanced; he then ordered the pieces to be leveled against the insurgents, at which time they were within 55 rods; as soon as they were discharged, the insurgents fled with the utmost precipitation—One of the men who managed the cannon, was by accident dangerously wounded—Four of the insurgents were killed, and a number wounded."
Hampshire Gazette, January 1787
The events described in this excerpt raised concern about the long-term viability of the .
"An attack was made on Thursday last by a party of Insurgents under Shays, upon the troops commanded by General Shephard, at Springfield—previous to the attack, upon the approach of the Insurgents, General Shephard sent messages to them at three several times, informing them that if they advanced he should assuredly fire on them—Mr. Shays replied, he was resolved to proceed and sleep that night in the barracks, and continued to advance.—General Shephard then ordered several cannon to be discharged on their right and left, but they still advanced; he then ordered the pieces to be leveled against the insurgents, at which time they were within 55 rods; as soon as they were discharged, the insurgents fled with the utmost precipitation—One of the men who managed the cannon, was by accident dangerously wounded—Four of the insurgents were killed, and a number wounded."
Hampshire Gazette, January 1787
The events described in this excerpt raised concern about the long-term viability of the .
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Shay's Rebellion -which is described in this passage- was an uprising of farmers, primarily in Massachusetts in 1786 and 1787. While the threat was minimal, it raised alarm among the states that the weak central government provided for under the Articles of Confederation was unable to meet the new nation's needs.
Shay's Rebellion -which is described in this passage- was an uprising of farmers, primarily in Massachusetts in 1786 and 1787. While the threat was minimal, it raised alarm among the states that the weak central government provided for under the Articles of Confederation was unable to meet the new nation's needs.
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"Political liberty, the great Montesquieu again observes, consists in security, or at least in the opinion we have of security; and this security therefore, or the opinion, is best obtained in moderate governments, where the mildness of the laws, and the equality of the manners, beget a confidence in the people, which produces this security, or the opinion. This moderation in governments, depends in a great measure on their limits, connected with their political distribution."
The author of this selection is most likely taking a position on .
"Political liberty, the great Montesquieu again observes, consists in security, or at least in the opinion we have of security; and this security therefore, or the opinion, is best obtained in moderate governments, where the mildness of the laws, and the equality of the manners, beget a confidence in the people, which produces this security, or the opinion. This moderation in governments, depends in a great measure on their limits, connected with their political distribution."
The author of this selection is most likely taking a position on .
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The author is an Anti-federalist arguing against ratification of the Constitution. The selection is from Cato and was written in 1787. The selection discusses moderate government and the limits placed on it. This is in line with the views of those who opposed the ratification of the Constitution.
The author is an Anti-federalist arguing against ratification of the Constitution. The selection is from Cato and was written in 1787. The selection discusses moderate government and the limits placed on it. This is in line with the views of those who opposed the ratification of the Constitution.
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"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
-- 9th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
When did the above amendment become part of the U.S. Constitution?
"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
-- 9th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
When did the above amendment become part of the U.S. Constitution?
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The Ninth Amendment was ratified in 1791. It was part of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution. The amendment provides that the enumeration of rights in the Constitution does not limit other rights. Stated another way, individual rights are broader than those listed in the Constitution.
The Ninth Amendment was ratified in 1791. It was part of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution. The amendment provides that the enumeration of rights in the Constitution does not limit other rights. Stated another way, individual rights are broader than those listed in the Constitution.
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"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
-- 9th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
What political group would be most in favor of this amendment?
"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
-- 9th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution
What political group would be most in favor of this amendment?
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The Ninth Amendment to the Constitution provided that other rights existed beyond those that are listed. The amendment, drafted by James Madison, provided an additional protection against potentially tyrannical government. At the time of the adoption of the Constitution, this was a chief concern of those identified as Anti-federalists.
The Ninth Amendment to the Constitution provided that other rights existed beyond those that are listed. The amendment, drafted by James Madison, provided an additional protection against potentially tyrannical government. At the time of the adoption of the Constitution, this was a chief concern of those identified as Anti-federalists.
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About ten o'clock the enemy began to advance briskly in three columns, with loud shouts and recovered arms, two of them inclining to the left of our army, and the third towards our right, firing obliquely at the two extremities of our line, from the distance of one hundred and thirty, until they came within forty, yards; which our troops withstood with the greatest intrepidity and firmness, still reserving their fire, and paying the strictest obedience to their officers. This uncommon steadiness, together with the havoc which the grapeshot from our fieldpieces made among them, threw them into some disorder, and was most critically maintained by a well-timed, regular, and heavy discharge of our small arms, such as they could no longer oppose. Hereupon they gave way, and fled with precipitation, so that, by the time the cloud of smoke was vanished, our men were again loaded, and, profiting by the advantage we had over them, pursued them almost to the gates of the town and the bridge over the little river, redoubling our fire with great eagerness, making many officers and men prisoners.
- The Journal of John Knox, British Army Officer. 1763
What turning point battle of the French and Indian War is this passage about?
About ten o'clock the enemy began to advance briskly in three columns, with loud shouts and recovered arms, two of them inclining to the left of our army, and the third towards our right, firing obliquely at the two extremities of our line, from the distance of one hundred and thirty, until they came within forty, yards; which our troops withstood with the greatest intrepidity and firmness, still reserving their fire, and paying the strictest obedience to their officers. This uncommon steadiness, together with the havoc which the grapeshot from our fieldpieces made among them, threw them into some disorder, and was most critically maintained by a well-timed, regular, and heavy discharge of our small arms, such as they could no longer oppose. Hereupon they gave way, and fled with precipitation, so that, by the time the cloud of smoke was vanished, our men were again loaded, and, profiting by the advantage we had over them, pursued them almost to the gates of the town and the bridge over the little river, redoubling our fire with great eagerness, making many officers and men prisoners.
- The Journal of John Knox, British Army Officer. 1763
What turning point battle of the French and Indian War is this passage about?
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In 1759, under the leadership of James Wolfe, the British sailed up the St. Lawrence River. The troops were over 9,000 and they battled to break the defenses for four months. Finally, the troops landed in the foot of the cliffs near the city. The forces confronted each other the next morning in the Plains of Abraham, a field outside the city. Both Wolfe and the Marquis de Montecalm, the french commander, were killed in this battle. As the British defeated the French and Captured the city of Quebec, making this the pivotal point in the French and Indian War.
In 1759, under the leadership of James Wolfe, the British sailed up the St. Lawrence River. The troops were over 9,000 and they battled to break the defenses for four months. Finally, the troops landed in the foot of the cliffs near the city. The forces confronted each other the next morning in the Plains of Abraham, a field outside the city. Both Wolfe and the Marquis de Montecalm, the french commander, were killed in this battle. As the British defeated the French and Captured the city of Quebec, making this the pivotal point in the French and Indian War.
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That this kingdom has the sovereign, the supreme legislative power over America, is granted. It cannot be denied; and taxation is a part of that sovereign power. It is one branch of the legislation. . . . Protection and obedience are reciprocal. Great Britain protects America, America is bound to yield \[give\] obedience. If not, tell me when the Americans were emancipated? When they want the protection of this kingdom, they are always ready to ask it. That protection has always been afforded them in the most full and ample manner. The nation has run itself into an immense debt to give them this protection; and now they are called upon to contribute a small share to the public expense.
-George Grenville, Member of Parliament (January 14, 1766)
After the French and Indian War, what point was parliament making?
That this kingdom has the sovereign, the supreme legislative power over America, is granted. It cannot be denied; and taxation is a part of that sovereign power. It is one branch of the legislation. . . . Protection and obedience are reciprocal. Great Britain protects America, America is bound to yield \[give\] obedience. If not, tell me when the Americans were emancipated? When they want the protection of this kingdom, they are always ready to ask it. That protection has always been afforded them in the most full and ample manner. The nation has run itself into an immense debt to give them this protection; and now they are called upon to contribute a small share to the public expense.
-George Grenville, Member of Parliament (January 14, 1766)
After the French and Indian War, what point was parliament making?
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The British empire in North America had grown to huge and England had to pay attention to protecting and defending it, not neglecting it. To the British, it seemed natural to ask the colonist to help pay for the war and share the cost of maintaining troops. The British government decided to enforce existing trade laws and to introduce new laws. This new involvement was unwelcome as the colonists were used to salutary neglect, having habits of self rule.
The British empire in North America had grown to huge and England had to pay attention to protecting and defending it, not neglecting it. To the British, it seemed natural to ask the colonist to help pay for the war and share the cost of maintaining troops. The British government decided to enforce existing trade laws and to introduce new laws. This new involvement was unwelcome as the colonists were used to salutary neglect, having habits of self rule.
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Now, one of the most essential branches of English liberty is the freedom of one's house. A man's house is his castle; and whilst he is quiet, he is as well guarded as a prince in his castle. This writ, if it should be declared legal, would totally annihilate this privilege. Custom-house officers may enter our houses when they please; we are commanded to permit their entry. Their menial servants may enter, may break locks, bars, and everything in their way; and whether they break through malice or revenge, no man, no court can inquire. Bare suspicion without oath is sufficient.
-"Against The Writs of Assistance" by James Otis. February 1761
What are the Writs of Assistance trying to enforce?
Now, one of the most essential branches of English liberty is the freedom of one's house. A man's house is his castle; and whilst he is quiet, he is as well guarded as a prince in his castle. This writ, if it should be declared legal, would totally annihilate this privilege. Custom-house officers may enter our houses when they please; we are commanded to permit their entry. Their menial servants may enter, may break locks, bars, and everything in their way; and whether they break through malice or revenge, no man, no court can inquire. Bare suspicion without oath is sufficient.
-"Against The Writs of Assistance" by James Otis. February 1761
What are the Writs of Assistance trying to enforce?
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The writs were a general search warrant. It allowed customs officers to enter any ship, home, or warehouse for smuggled goods. The Writs of Assistance was method of stricter regulation in the colonies by the British, implemented in 1761.
The writs were a general search warrant. It allowed customs officers to enter any ship, home, or warehouse for smuggled goods. The Writs of Assistance was method of stricter regulation in the colonies by the British, implemented in 1761.
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AN ACT for granting and applying certain stamp duties, and other duties, in the British colonies and plantations in America, towards further defraying the expenses of defending, protecting, and securing the same…
WHEREAS, by an act made in the last session of Parliament several duties were granted, continued, and appropriated toward defraying the expenses of defending, protecting, and securing the British colonies and plantations in America; and whereas it is just and necessary that provision be made for raising a further revenue within your majesty's dominions in America toward defraying the said expenses; we, your majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Commons of Great Britain, in Parliament assembled, have therefore resolved to give and grant unto your majesty the several rates and duties hereinafter mentioned… there shall be raised, levied, collected, and paid unto his majesty, his heirs, and successors, throughout the colonies and plantations in America…
-Excerpt from Stamp Act. March 22, 1765
The Stamp Act aroused opposition because it .
AN ACT for granting and applying certain stamp duties, and other duties, in the British colonies and plantations in America, towards further defraying the expenses of defending, protecting, and securing the same…
WHEREAS, by an act made in the last session of Parliament several duties were granted, continued, and appropriated toward defraying the expenses of defending, protecting, and securing the British colonies and plantations in America; and whereas it is just and necessary that provision be made for raising a further revenue within your majesty's dominions in America toward defraying the said expenses; we, your majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Commons of Great Britain, in Parliament assembled, have therefore resolved to give and grant unto your majesty the several rates and duties hereinafter mentioned… there shall be raised, levied, collected, and paid unto his majesty, his heirs, and successors, throughout the colonies and plantations in America…
-Excerpt from Stamp Act. March 22, 1765
The Stamp Act aroused opposition because it .
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The Stamp Act of 1765 stirred up a storm of protest as it taxed newspapers, almanacs, pamphlets, playing cards, and legal documents. A government tax had to be placed on each article to show that the tax had been paid. Colonists showed their distaste through secret societies, boycotting the items, and even attacking tax collectors.
The Stamp Act of 1765 stirred up a storm of protest as it taxed newspapers, almanacs, pamphlets, playing cards, and legal documents. A government tax had to be placed on each article to show that the tax had been paid. Colonists showed their distaste through secret societies, boycotting the items, and even attacking tax collectors.
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Whereas several of the houses of representatives in his Majesty's colonies and plantations in America, have of late against law, claimed to themselves, or to the general assemblies of the same, the sole and exclusive right of imposing duties and taxes upon his majesty's subjects in the said colonies and plantations; and have in pursuance of such claim, passed certain votes, resolutions, and orders derogatory to the legislative authority of parliament, and inconsistent with the dependency Of the said colonies and plantations upon the crown of Great Britain : may it therefore please your most excellent Majesty, that it may be declared ; and be it declared by the King's most excellent majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the lords spiritual and temporal, and commons, in this present parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, That the said colonies and plantations in America have been, are, and of right ought to be, subordinate unto, and dependent upon the imperial crown and parliament of Great Britain...
-Excerpt from The Declaratory Act 1766, British Parliament
The Declaratory Act .
Whereas several of the houses of representatives in his Majesty's colonies and plantations in America, have of late against law, claimed to themselves, or to the general assemblies of the same, the sole and exclusive right of imposing duties and taxes upon his majesty's subjects in the said colonies and plantations; and have in pursuance of such claim, passed certain votes, resolutions, and orders derogatory to the legislative authority of parliament, and inconsistent with the dependency Of the said colonies and plantations upon the crown of Great Britain : may it therefore please your most excellent Majesty, that it may be declared ; and be it declared by the King's most excellent majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the lords spiritual and temporal, and commons, in this present parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, That the said colonies and plantations in America have been, are, and of right ought to be, subordinate unto, and dependent upon the imperial crown and parliament of Great Britain...
-Excerpt from The Declaratory Act 1766, British Parliament
The Declaratory Act .
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The Declaratory Act of 1766 was a British Law, passed by the Parliament of Great Britain, that was passed at the same time that the Stamp Act was repealed. The declaration stated Parliament's authority was the same in America as in Britain and asserted Parliament's authority to pass laws that were binding on the American colonies. The colonies did not dispute the notion of Parliamentary supremacy over the law. But the ability to tax without representation was another matter. The Declaratory Act made no such distinction.
The Declaratory Act of 1766 was a British Law, passed by the Parliament of Great Britain, that was passed at the same time that the Stamp Act was repealed. The declaration stated Parliament's authority was the same in America as in Britain and asserted Parliament's authority to pass laws that were binding on the American colonies. The colonies did not dispute the notion of Parliamentary supremacy over the law. But the ability to tax without representation was another matter. The Declaratory Act made no such distinction.
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A. I think the difference is very great. An external tax is a duty laid on commodities imported; that duty is added to the first cost, and other charges on the commodity, and when it is offered to sale, makes a part of the price. If the people do not like it at that price, they refuse it; they are not obliged to pay it. But an internal tax is forced from the people without their consent, if not laid by their own representatives. The Stamp Act says we shall have no commerce, make no exchange of property with each other, neither purchase nor grant, nor recover debts; we shall neither marry, nor make our wills, unless we pay such and such sums, and thus it is intended to extort our money from us, or ruin us by the consequences of refusing to pay it.
Q. But supposing the external tax or duty to be laid on the necessaries of life imported into your Colony, will not that be the same thing in its effects as an internal tax?
A. I do not know a single article imported into the Northern Colonies but what they can either do without or make themselves.
Q. Don’t you think cloth from England absolutely necessary to them?
A. No, by no means absolutely necessary; with industry and good management, they may very well supply themselves with all they want.
Q. Considering the resolutions of Parliament, as to the right, do you think if the Stamp Act is repealed that the North Americans will be satisfied?
A. I believe they will.
-Excerpt from Benjamin Franklin Testimony before the House of Commons relating to the Stamp Act, 13 Feb. 1766.
Britain responded to the Stamp Act crisis by .
A. I think the difference is very great. An external tax is a duty laid on commodities imported; that duty is added to the first cost, and other charges on the commodity, and when it is offered to sale, makes a part of the price. If the people do not like it at that price, they refuse it; they are not obliged to pay it. But an internal tax is forced from the people without their consent, if not laid by their own representatives. The Stamp Act says we shall have no commerce, make no exchange of property with each other, neither purchase nor grant, nor recover debts; we shall neither marry, nor make our wills, unless we pay such and such sums, and thus it is intended to extort our money from us, or ruin us by the consequences of refusing to pay it.
Q. But supposing the external tax or duty to be laid on the necessaries of life imported into your Colony, will not that be the same thing in its effects as an internal tax?
A. I do not know a single article imported into the Northern Colonies but what they can either do without or make themselves.
Q. Don’t you think cloth from England absolutely necessary to them?
A. No, by no means absolutely necessary; with industry and good management, they may very well supply themselves with all they want.
Q. Considering the resolutions of Parliament, as to the right, do you think if the Stamp Act is repealed that the North Americans will be satisfied?
A. I believe they will.
-Excerpt from Benjamin Franklin Testimony before the House of Commons relating to the Stamp Act, 13 Feb. 1766.
Britain responded to the Stamp Act crisis by .
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England was disturbed by the strong reaction by the colonists. English merchants suffered from colonial boycotts. Parliament repealed the Stamp Act but passed the Declaration Act, reaffirming British authority over the colonies in all cases.
England was disturbed by the strong reaction by the colonists. English merchants suffered from colonial boycotts. Parliament repealed the Stamp Act but passed the Declaration Act, reaffirming British authority over the colonies in all cases.
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5. That the Resolution lately entered into by the East India Company to send out their Tea to America, subject to the Payment of Duties on its being landed here, is an open Attempt to enforce this Ministerial Plan and a violent Attack upon the Liberties of America.
6. That it is the Duty of every American to oppose this Attempt.
7. That whoever shall directly or indirectly countenance this Attempt, or in any wise aid or abet in unloading, receiving, or vending \[selling\] the Tea sent, or to be sent out by the East India Company, while it remains subject to the Payment of a Duty here, is an Enemy to his Country.
8. That a Committee be immediately chosen to wait on those Gentlemen who, it is reported, are appointed by the East India Company to receive and sell said Tea, and request them, from a Regard to their own Character, and the Peace and good Order of the City and Province, immediately to resign their Appointment.
-CITIZENS of PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, assembled at the State House, 18 October 1773, Excerpt from resolutions for the boycott of East India Company tea; Pennsylvania Gazette, 20 October 1773
The colonists responded to the Tea Act by .
5. That the Resolution lately entered into by the East India Company to send out their Tea to America, subject to the Payment of Duties on its being landed here, is an open Attempt to enforce this Ministerial Plan and a violent Attack upon the Liberties of America.
6. That it is the Duty of every American to oppose this Attempt.
7. That whoever shall directly or indirectly countenance this Attempt, or in any wise aid or abet in unloading, receiving, or vending \[selling\] the Tea sent, or to be sent out by the East India Company, while it remains subject to the Payment of a Duty here, is an Enemy to his Country.
8. That a Committee be immediately chosen to wait on those Gentlemen who, it is reported, are appointed by the East India Company to receive and sell said Tea, and request them, from a Regard to their own Character, and the Peace and good Order of the City and Province, immediately to resign their Appointment.
-CITIZENS of PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, assembled at the State House, 18 October 1773, Excerpt from resolutions for the boycott of East India Company tea; Pennsylvania Gazette, 20 October 1773
The colonists responded to the Tea Act by .
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The Tea Act allowed the company to ship tea directly to America without paying the heavy duty required in England. The Tea Act undercut all merchants of tea within the colonies by giving exclusive rights to the East India Company. Many colonists opposed the Act because it seemed to validate the Townshend Tax on tea.
In New York and Philadelphia, opposition resulted in the return of tea ships back to Britain. In Charleston, the colonists left the tea on the docks to rot. Governor Hutchinson in Boston was determined to leave the ships in port, even though vigilant colonists refused to allow the tea to be landed. Matters reached a crisis when the time period for landing the tea and colonists disguised as Indians swarmed aboard three tea-laden ships and dumped their cargo into the harbor in what is now known as the Boston Tea Party.
The Tea Act allowed the company to ship tea directly to America without paying the heavy duty required in England. The Tea Act undercut all merchants of tea within the colonies by giving exclusive rights to the East India Company. Many colonists opposed the Act because it seemed to validate the Townshend Tax on tea.
In New York and Philadelphia, opposition resulted in the return of tea ships back to Britain. In Charleston, the colonists left the tea on the docks to rot. Governor Hutchinson in Boston was determined to leave the ships in port, even though vigilant colonists refused to allow the tea to be landed. Matters reached a crisis when the time period for landing the tea and colonists disguised as Indians swarmed aboard three tea-laden ships and dumped their cargo into the harbor in what is now known as the Boston Tea Party.
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I have heard it asserted by some that, as America has flourished under her former connection with Great Britain, the same connection is necessary towards her future happiness, and will always have the same effect. Nothing can be more fallacious than this kind of argument. We may as well assert that, because a child had thrived upon milk, it is never to have meat, or that the first twenty years of our lives is to become a precedent for the next twenty. But even this is admitting more than is true. For I answer roundly that America would have flourished as much, and probably much more, had no European power taken any notice of her…
- Thomas Paine, Common Sense (1776)
This passage advocates which of the following ideas?
I have heard it asserted by some that, as America has flourished under her former connection with Great Britain, the same connection is necessary towards her future happiness, and will always have the same effect. Nothing can be more fallacious than this kind of argument. We may as well assert that, because a child had thrived upon milk, it is never to have meat, or that the first twenty years of our lives is to become a precedent for the next twenty. But even this is admitting more than is true. For I answer roundly that America would have flourished as much, and probably much more, had no European power taken any notice of her…
- Thomas Paine, Common Sense (1776)
This passage advocates which of the following ideas?
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In his pamphlet Common Sense, Paine exhorted Americans to rise in opposition to the British government and establish a new government based on Enlightenment ideals. Historians have cited the publication of this pamphlet as one of the events that greatly influenced public opinion in favor of a clear break with Great Britain and led to the Revolutionary War.
In his pamphlet Common Sense, Paine exhorted Americans to rise in opposition to the British government and establish a new government based on Enlightenment ideals. Historians have cited the publication of this pamphlet as one of the events that greatly influenced public opinion in favor of a clear break with Great Britain and led to the Revolutionary War.
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Five of our number in the passage dy'd,
Who were cast into the ocean wide,
And, after sailing seven weeks and more,
We at Virginia all were put on shore. ...
Our faces shav'd, comb'd our wigs and hair,
That we in decent order might appear,
Against the Planters did come us to view,
How well they lik'd this fresh transported crew ...
At length a grim old man unto me came,
He ask'd my trade, likewise my name,
I told him I a tin-man was by trade,
And not eighteen years of age I said ...
At last to my new master's house I came,
To the town of Wicowoco call'd by name,
Here my European cloaths were took from me,
Which never after I could ever see.
Passage adapted from "The Poor Unhappy Transported Felon's Sorrowful Account" by James Revell (1767)
Who is the most likely author of this passage?
Five of our number in the passage dy'd,
Who were cast into the ocean wide,
And, after sailing seven weeks and more,
We at Virginia all were put on shore. ...
Our faces shav'd, comb'd our wigs and hair,
That we in decent order might appear,
Against the Planters did come us to view,
How well they lik'd this fresh transported crew ...
At length a grim old man unto me came,
He ask'd my trade, likewise my name,
I told him I a tin-man was by trade,
And not eighteen years of age I said ...
At last to my new master's house I came,
To the town of Wicowoco call'd by name,
Here my European cloaths were took from me,
Which never after I could ever see.
Passage adapted from "The Poor Unhappy Transported Felon's Sorrowful Account" by James Revell (1767)
Who is the most likely author of this passage?
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Many Europeans who arrived in North America during the 17th and 18th centuries came under contract as indentured servants; however, an improving economy in England in the late 17th and early 18th centuries meant that fewer workers chose to go to the colonies. The transformation from indentured servitude to slavery was a gradual process in Virginia. The major clues that the author of this piece was a European servant rather than an African slave are the fact that he was wearing a wig, the fact that he had learned a trade, and the fact that he came to his master's house in European clothes.
Many Europeans who arrived in North America during the 17th and 18th centuries came under contract as indentured servants; however, an improving economy in England in the late 17th and early 18th centuries meant that fewer workers chose to go to the colonies. The transformation from indentured servitude to slavery was a gradual process in Virginia. The major clues that the author of this piece was a European servant rather than an African slave are the fact that he was wearing a wig, the fact that he had learned a trade, and the fact that he came to his master's house in European clothes.
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French territories on the continent of America; it is agreed, that, for the future, the confines between the dominions of his Britannick Majesty and those of his Most Christian Majesty, in that part of the world, shall be fixed irrevocably by a line drawn along the middle of the River Mississippi, from its source to the river Iberville, and from thence, by a line drawn along the middle of this river, and the lakes Maurepas and Pontchartrain to the sea; and for this purpose, the Most Christian King cedes in full right, and guaranties to his Britannick Majesty the river and port of the Mobile, and everything which he possesses, or ought to possess, on the left side of the river Mississippi, except the town of New Orleans and the island in which it is situated, which shall remain to France, provided that the navigation of the river Mississippi shall be equally free, as well to the subjects of Great Britain as to those of France, in its whole breadth and length, from its source to the sea, and expressly that part which is between the said island of New Orleans and the right bank of that river, as well as the passage both in and out of its mouth: It is farther stipulated, that the vessels belonging to the subjects of either nation shall not be stopped, visited, or subjected to the payment of any duty whatsoever. The stipulations inserted in the IVth article, in favour of the inhabitants of Canada shall also take place with regard to the inhabitants of the countries ceded by this article.
-Article VII. The Treaty of Paris. 1763
Due to The French and Indian War, to where was the western boundary of the British territory in North America extended?
French territories on the continent of America; it is agreed, that, for the future, the confines between the dominions of his Britannick Majesty and those of his Most Christian Majesty, in that part of the world, shall be fixed irrevocably by a line drawn along the middle of the River Mississippi, from its source to the river Iberville, and from thence, by a line drawn along the middle of this river, and the lakes Maurepas and Pontchartrain to the sea; and for this purpose, the Most Christian King cedes in full right, and guaranties to his Britannick Majesty the river and port of the Mobile, and everything which he possesses, or ought to possess, on the left side of the river Mississippi, except the town of New Orleans and the island in which it is situated, which shall remain to France, provided that the navigation of the river Mississippi shall be equally free, as well to the subjects of Great Britain as to those of France, in its whole breadth and length, from its source to the sea, and expressly that part which is between the said island of New Orleans and the right bank of that river, as well as the passage both in and out of its mouth: It is farther stipulated, that the vessels belonging to the subjects of either nation shall not be stopped, visited, or subjected to the payment of any duty whatsoever. The stipulations inserted in the IVth article, in favour of the inhabitants of Canada shall also take place with regard to the inhabitants of the countries ceded by this article.
-Article VII. The Treaty of Paris. 1763
Due to The French and Indian War, to where was the western boundary of the British territory in North America extended?
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France and England officially ended in 1763 when the Treaty of Paris was signed. There were four provisions relating to America. These provisions were,
1. France ceded Canada and all the land east of the Mississippi (except New Orleans) to England.
2. New Orleans and the region that France claimed west of the Mississippi went to Spain an ally of France.
3. Spain gave England Florida in exchange for Cuba, which Britain had taken during the war.
4. France kept two small islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence for fishing stations. It also retained several islands in the West Indies.
France and England officially ended in 1763 when the Treaty of Paris was signed. There were four provisions relating to America. These provisions were,
1. France ceded Canada and all the land east of the Mississippi (except New Orleans) to England.
2. New Orleans and the region that France claimed west of the Mississippi went to Spain an ally of France.
3. Spain gave England Florida in exchange for Cuba, which Britain had taken during the war.
4. France kept two small islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence for fishing stations. It also retained several islands in the West Indies.
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“History and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of republican government.... Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and excessive dislike of another cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side and serve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other. . . . The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign nations, is in extending our commercial relations to have with them as little political connection as possible. So far as we have already formed engagements, let them be fulfilled with perfect good faith. Here let us stop. Europe has a set of primary interests which to us have none, or a very remote relation. Hence she must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes of which are essentially foreign to our concerns.”
- George Washington, Farewell Address, 1796
The concerns elaborated by Washington were in response to which of the following events?
“History and experience prove that foreign influence is one of the most baneful foes of republican government.... Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and excessive dislike of another cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side and serve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other. . . . The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign nations, is in extending our commercial relations to have with them as little political connection as possible. So far as we have already formed engagements, let them be fulfilled with perfect good faith. Here let us stop. Europe has a set of primary interests which to us have none, or a very remote relation. Hence she must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes of which are essentially foreign to our concerns.”
- George Washington, Farewell Address, 1796
The concerns elaborated by Washington were in response to which of the following events?
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In his farewell address, Washington warned the nation to avoid permanent alliances with foreign nations. Washington’s efforts to protect the fragile young republic by steering a neutral course between England and France during the French Revolutionary Wars was made extremely difficult by the intense rhetoric flowing from the pro-English Federalists led by Alexander Hamilton and the pro-French led by Thomas Jefferson.
In his farewell address, Washington warned the nation to avoid permanent alliances with foreign nations. Washington’s efforts to protect the fragile young republic by steering a neutral course between England and France during the French Revolutionary Wars was made extremely difficult by the intense rhetoric flowing from the pro-English Federalists led by Alexander Hamilton and the pro-French led by Thomas Jefferson.
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Passage adapted from Richard Allen's "To Those Who Keep Slaves, and Approve the Practice" (1794)
"The judicious part of mankind will think it unreasonable that a superior good conduct is looked for from our race, by those who stigmatize us as men, whose baseness is incurable, and may therefore be held in a state of servitude, that a merciful man would not doom a beast to; yet you try what you can to prevent our rising from a state of barbarism you represent us to be in, but we can tell you from a degree of experience that a black man, although reduced to the most abject state human nature is capable of, short of real madness, can think, reflect, and feel injuries, although it may not be with the same degree of keen resentment and revenge that you who have been and are our great oppressors would manifest if reduced to the pitiable condition of a slave.
We believe if you would try the experiment of taking a few black children, and cultivate their minds with the same care, and let them have the same prospect in view as to living in the world, as you would wish for your own children, you would find upon the trial, they were not inferior in mental endowments."
To what group is Allen addressing his speech?
Passage adapted from Richard Allen's "To Those Who Keep Slaves, and Approve the Practice" (1794)
"The judicious part of mankind will think it unreasonable that a superior good conduct is looked for from our race, by those who stigmatize us as men, whose baseness is incurable, and may therefore be held in a state of servitude, that a merciful man would not doom a beast to; yet you try what you can to prevent our rising from a state of barbarism you represent us to be in, but we can tell you from a degree of experience that a black man, although reduced to the most abject state human nature is capable of, short of real madness, can think, reflect, and feel injuries, although it may not be with the same degree of keen resentment and revenge that you who have been and are our great oppressors would manifest if reduced to the pitiable condition of a slave.
We believe if you would try the experiment of taking a few black children, and cultivate their minds with the same care, and let them have the same prospect in view as to living in the world, as you would wish for your own children, you would find upon the trial, they were not inferior in mental endowments."
To what group is Allen addressing his speech?
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Richard Allen's speech is directed "To Those Who Keep Slaves," which indicates his concern is primarily with those who own slaves. While slavery was not strictly regionally confined before 1800, the large Southern plantations had already been established as the main places where slaves were held. In particular, the plantation system featured chattel slavery, which is reflected in Allen's language about slaves being kept in a state that "a merciful man would not doom a beast to."
Richard Allen's speech is directed "To Those Who Keep Slaves," which indicates his concern is primarily with those who own slaves. While slavery was not strictly regionally confined before 1800, the large Southern plantations had already been established as the main places where slaves were held. In particular, the plantation system featured chattel slavery, which is reflected in Allen's language about slaves being kept in a state that "a merciful man would not doom a beast to."
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