Sons of Liberty Overview

Study Notes

Background of the Sons of Liberty

Secret political organization formed during the American Revolution.
Existed in all thirteen colonies by the time the Revolution began.

Formation

Established in 1765 as a response to the Stamp Act.
Emerged from smaller protest groups, primarily the "Loyal Nine" in Boston, with rapid expansion to New York and Connecticut.

Name Origin

Name derived from a speech by Isaac Barre in British Parliament.
Barre referred to American colonists as "sons of Liberty" during debates on the Stamp Act.

Meeting Locations

Held secret meetings to avoid arrest by British troops.
Informal gatherings took place at local taverns like the Green Dragon Tavern in Boston.
More formal meetings occurred at night or under "Liberty Tree" in Hanover Square, Boston.
In New York, a "Liberty Pole" signaled the location for meetings.

Protest Activities

First major action was protesting the Stamp Act through direct harassment of tax distributors.
Intimidation led many stamp tax distributors to resign from their positions.
Organized public demonstrations that effectively pressured the British government to repeal the tax.

The Boston Tea Party

Most renowned protest action was the Boston Tea Party against tea tax.
Several members boarded ships in Boston Harbor and disposed of tea into the water.
The event significantly contributed to the buildup of tensions leading to the Revolutionary War.

Member Demographics

Included diverse members from various colonial professions: lawyers, stockbrokers, farmers, and more.
Notable members included Samuel Adams, John Adams, Benedict Arnold, John Hancock, Patrick Henry, Joseph Warren, and Paul Revere.

Description

This quiz explores the Sons of Liberty, a crucial organization during the American Revolution. It highlights their formation, significance, and activities across the thirteen colonies. Test your understanding of this pivotal group in American history.