Introduction
During the times of Colonial America, the settlers sought to live and work for the benefit of themselves and their own families. British rule and its continuous attempts to enact tighter control over the colonies stood at odds with that goal, placing the British and the Colonial Americans on two different sides of the event historians would come to call the American Revolution. The Crown enforced a number of laws and regulations aimed at limiting the self-sustainability of colonies and hindering their wealth accumulation. This included heavy taxation, imposed limits on official currency, and the statement of British army troops on Colony soil. All of these decisions sparked widespread protest, civil unrest, and escalating tensions between the two sides. American colonists believed that they were exploited and under-represented by the structures of power, prompting a search for wider liberties and freedoms. This desire is seen both in numerous documents from the time period and in actual pieces of historic memorabilia. This work will seek to explore the relationship between the American Colonists and the systems of power they were a part of.
Evidence
Teapot
This historical document is a ceramic teapot that expresses anti-Stamp Act sentiments. Specifically, its two sides state: “No Stamp Act” and “American Liberty Restores” respectively. The Stamp Act, which limited colonist’s use of paper and disallowed them from using American-made currency was widely unpopular, as it taxed the citizens for services they did not need. The money from the taxation went to fund the troops, which were unnecessary and expensive. The decision to pay for troops was not given to the colonists, nor was their desire for a proper separate currency taken into account. Therefore, a widespread protest ensued. The now-famous slogan “No taxation without representation” came from the times of the Stamp Act. The existence of the teapot – a piece of tableware, likely produced in a factory, showcases the widespread awareness of the population regarding the Stamp Act and reaffirms the position of the Colonists. It is a piece that directly displays the commitment of the American population to their civil rights and liberties.
The Virginia Resolves
The document outlines and discusses the rights colonists should have. It is written in response to the Stamp Act, further following the idea that legal representation was an especially sought-after resolution. The rights discussed include taxation and law enforcement, which effectively calls for the colonies to become self-governed. The existence of the document displays a level of disconnect between the control of the British monarchy and the people living in the American Colonies. Individuals who worked and lived on these territories felt that the Parliament was incapable of working in their best interest or providing them with the necessary degree of flexibility.
Conclusion
The last document under review is an article written by Samuel Adams. The work connects the desire for representation with the concept of human liberty, freedom, and rights. As Englishmen, the colonists believed that they should be entitled to a level of control over their own lives and surroundings. Therefore, a lack of influence or sufficient political voice was at odds with their identity. The existence of this document showcases how political rights can be understood as a vital part of one’s identity.