Taxation Without Representation

Today, our tax money goes to our government where it is put towards helping the citizens directly. Back then, the taxes went straight to the British government where the colonists had no say. A phrase became popular during this time: "Taxation without representation!"

The Boston Tea Party was a rebellion to the unfair taxes.

Let's take a closer look!

Placed in 1773

gave the financially troubled British company, the East India Company a method to earn more income.

The Tea Act

Placed in 1767

Placed taxes on paper, glass, oil, paint, lead, and tea.

The Townshend Revenue Act

Taxes & Acts

​Why would the colonists be upset about the East India Company earning money?

What is a monopoly?

a single seller or producer that excludes competition from providing the same product.

Because the East India Company sold their tea at a lower price, this deterred companies from purchasing local tea, which was more expensive. The cheaper tea eliminated any competition from local tea merchants.

The Boston Tea Party

December 16th, 1773

A secret society called the Sons of Liberty, hi-jacked a ship in the Boston Harbor. Dressed as Mohawk Indians, the Sons of Liberty, boarded the ship and threw 340 chests of tea into the the water.

​Prediction: How do you think the British government responded to the rebellion?

The Intolerable Acts

In response to the rebellion, the British government implemented 5 Acts called "The Intolerable Acts".

These Acts led to the colonists demanding their independence from Great Britain.

Let's take a closer look at The Intolerable Acts...

In the event of a jury trial, the location could be changed to either Great Britain or a British colony.

Administration of Justice Act

Closed off the port to the Boston Harbor. Essentially eliminating commerce and trade in Boston.

Boston Port Bill

The Intolerable Acts

Designated western region north of the Ohio River as part of Quebec. Appointed the established religion in Quebec as Roman Catholicism.

Quebec Act

Limited colonial power and restored royal government. Outlawed freely called town meetings and elected positions.

Massachusetts Governement Act

The Intolerable Acts

The Intolerable Acts

The Quartering Act

Allowed the new governor to house British soldiers in private homes, and other buildings without permission from the colonists.

How do you think America would be if the Boston Tea Party Never Happened?

Do you think America would have become an independent country regardless?