Resistance Timeline

February 10, 1763 – The Treaty of Paris 

The Seven Years War is concluded. The French concede their territories west of the Mississippi, excluding New Orleans, to the British. The expense of the war leads to a massive English national debt, which Parliament seeks to recoup through taxation of its colonies.  

March 22, 1765 – The Stamp Act  

The British Government passes an act authorizing a tax on paper goods, such as newspapers and legal documents. The tax faces violent opposition from colonists, spurring groups like the Sons of Liberty to form in 1765. These protests will have ripple effects, leading to the events of the Revolutionary War. 

October 19, 1765 – The Resolutions of the Stamp Act Congress 

The Massachusetts legislature invites the colonies to send delegates to New York to discuss the Stamp Act, on the motion of James Otis. Only nine colonies send representatives, and six representatives sign the petition addressed to the King of England and British Parliament requesting the act be repealed.   

March 5, 1770 – The Boston Massacre  

Violence between colonists and occupying British troops break out in Boston as tensions reach an all-time high. A few civilians, including Crispus Attucks, are killed instantly while other members of the mob are injured. The violence of the event will be seized on by figures such as Samuel Adams and Paul Revere to fuel momentum towards the impending revolution.