Conclusion
You have learned through the use of primary sources about the Stamp act that was passed on to the colonists in 1765. You have learned that this was the first direct tax that Parliament had passed on the colonies and that it had a significant impact on the upper classes of society. Colonists from all social levels came together to resist what they saw as unjust treatment by the British. In addition you examined the use of mob activity as a form of protest. Colonists used such tactics to sack the houses of Andrew Oliver and Thomas Hutchinson. Some felt that these mob actions were justified while others felt they went too far. You were asked to reflect on whether or not the use of mob violence was effective in causing change.
- Do you feel that you had enough information to determine which protest methods were effective?
- After reading the editorials of your classmates, would you change your opinion? Do you think there were merits to both sides of this issue? Explain why you would or would not change your original opinion.