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The Stamp Act of 1765
After the French and Indian War, the British government was in massive debt. To pay it off, Parliament decided to tax the American colonists, who they deemed to have the most benefit from the war. One of the acts was the Stamp Act, which required a stamp for printed documents, including cards, newspapers, and legal documents. (Photo: Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Stamp Act". Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Oct. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/event/Stamp-Act-Great-Britain-1765.) -
Colonial Response to the Stamp Act
The colonists did many things in response to the Stamp Act, including the "Stamp Act Congress", where they decided that the Stamp Act was unfair treatment towards the colonies. The Sons and Daughters of Liberty were also formed; two groups that would later play key roles in the American Revolution.
(Photo: Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Stamp Act Congress". Encyclopedia Britannica, 21 Mar. 2023, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Stamp-Act-Congress. Accessed 21 October 2024.) -
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The Stamp Act of 1765, the Townshend Acts of 1767, and America's Reaction
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Colonial Response to the Townshend Acts
The reaction to the Townshend Acts was severe. Boycotts, papers, and riots were everywhere. The conflict escalated to the Boston Massacre. Five men were killed by British troops, forever staining their reputations among colonists. Though the acts were partially repealed, nothing could undo the course set into place by the protests.
(Photo: Wallenfeldt, Jeff. "Boston Massacre". Encyclopedia Britannica, 17 Sep. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/event/Boston-Massacre. Accessed 21 October 2024.) -
The 1767 Townshend Acts
The Townshend Acts were created to further British power and taxation. They included the Townshend Revenue Act, the Indemnity Act, the Revenue Act, and the Vice Admiralty Court Act. These acts were some of the major causes of protest among colonists, creating a massive divide between Britain and America.
(Photo: Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Townshend Acts". Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Sep. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/event/Townshend-Acts. Accessed 21 October 2024.)