The History Cat: Countdown to Revolution

Begins with a description of the British system of mercantilism that was imposed on the American colonies along with the taxes levied through the Stamp Act and the Sugar Act. The Americans complained that it was taxation without representation in government. This led to protests, boycotts, and the formation of radical groups such as the Sons of Liberty. Even after the Stamp Act was replaced by the Townshend Acts in 1767, which taxed just imports, the protests and boycotts continued, and the radical Sons of Liberty movement grew stronger. These events were followed by the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770, in which British soldiers killed five colonists. A trial ensued in which the soldiers were represented by lawyer John Adams. The anger over the massacre was one of the events that led to the start of the American Revolution.