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Parliament and Taxes

On the Eve of the American Revolution - A Series

Looking to learn more about the American Revolution? Join us for a virtual presentation! Dr. Jim Gibb will discuss struggles between the American colonists & the British government regarding taxation.

In this series of presentations, we'll uncover the stories of the American Revolution!

From January through June, we will explore the individual actions and events leading to the Continental Congress declaring independence from Great Britain. Living conditions in Colonial Maryland on the eve of the Seven Years War (French & Indian War) provides our starting point. Presentations will include some archaeological findings in Maryland and elsewhere, but most of our discussions will examine specific events and documents, including shots fired at Lexington and Concord, removal of French Canadians from Acadia, paintings of the Anglo-American assault on French Canada, and the Declaration.

Parliamentary imposition of taxes were an affront to the freedom of the King’s North American subjects who insisted on taxing themselves. Rejection of Parliament’s authority offended the population of the British Isles. The argument became very intellectual: it also became highly personal. This lecture explores the debates and the struggle that had practical implications for both sides, but which also offended the honor of both sides, obstructing resolution.

This presentation will be held live over Zoom. It will also be recorded and uploaded to the St. Mary's County Library YouTube channel.

If you would like to attend this event live and/or watch the recording, please register with an email address to receive the Zoom link the day before the event. The YouTube link to the recording will be emailed to everyone who registers for this program.

Image caption: Townshend Act of 1767, one of the taxes:
"For every hundred weight avoirdupois of crown, plate, flint, and white glass, four shillings and eight pence."

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