-
The Proclamation LIne of 1763
London, to ease relation with Native Americans, sets boundaries for colonies. The colonists, though, are not happy with Britain limiting their expansion. -
The Sugar Act of 1764
Britain replaces its uninforced tax on molasses with a new one that is actually enforced. -
The Stamp Act
By taxing stamped papers inside the colonies, Parliament crosses the line from taxing imports to invading the colonists' lives. -
Repeal of the Stamp Act
After merchants in the Americas stopped buying imported goods in protest, the British economy forced Parliament to repeal the tax. -
Townshend Acts and Boycotts
As London starts more heavily taxing American imports, reorganizing the customs system, and forcing colonies to supply soldiers, American merchants once again make pacts to not import. -
The Boston Massacre
British soldiers trying to enforce the Townshend Acts fire on taunting civilians; Sam Adams uses this to stir up American opposition. -
Britain Backs Down
Lord North, faced with severely injured trade, repeals all the Townshend Acts, but keeps the Sugar Act. -
Boston Tea Party
When the East India Company was given exclusive reign over the American Tea Trade, the colonists protested. They ransacked tea ships in Boston Harbor. -
The Intolerable and Quebec Acts
Britain, in response to the Tea Party, passes acts designed to punish Boston. They also add in an angering act giving Quebec the colonies' Western land. -
First Continental Congress
The friendly relations reach a breaking point; the colonies unite to issue a declaration to England. Massachusetts starts stockpiling weapons for the coming war, and the Revolutionary War begins.