Primary+Documents+Leading+to+the+Declaration

__ ** Albany Plan of Union: 1754 ** __ It is proposed that humble application be made for an act of Parliament of Great Britain, by virtue of which one general government may be formed in America, including all the said colonies, within and under which government each colony may retain its present constitution, except in the particulars wherein a change may be directed by the said act, as hereafter follows. 1. That the said general government be administered by a President-General, to be appointed and supported by the crown; and a Grand Council, to be chosen by the representatives of the people of the several Colonies met in their respective assemblies. 2. That within -- months after the passing such act, the House of Representatives that happen to be sitting within that time, or that shall especially for that purpose convened, may and shall choose members for the Grand Council, in the following proportion, that is to say, Massachusetts Bay....7 New Hampshire..........2  Connecticut................5  Rhode Island..............2  New York...................4  New Jersey................3  Pennsylvania..............6  Maryland....................4  <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">Virginia.......................7  <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">North Carolina.............4  <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">South Carolina............4  <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">..................................  <span style="color: #008000; display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">Total...........................48  <span style="display: block; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">3. -- <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">who shall meet for the first time at the city of Philadelphia, being called by the President-General as soon as conveniently may be after his appointment. 4. That there shall be a new election of the members of the Grand Council every three years; and, on the death or resignation of any member, his place should be supplied by a new choice at the next sitting of the Assembly of the Colony he represented.5. That after the first three years, when the proportion of money arising out of each Colony to the general treasury can be known, the number of members to be chosen for each Colony shall, from time to time, in all ensuing elections, be regulated by that proportion, yet so as that the number to be chosen by any one Province be not more than seven, nor less than two.6. That the Grand Council shall meet once in every year, and oftener if occasion require, at such time and place as they shall adjourn to at the last preceding meeting, or as they shall be called to meet at by the President-General on any emergency; he having first obtained in writing the consent of seven of the members to such call, and sent duly and timely notice to the whole. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">7. That the Grand Council have power to choose their speaker; and shall neither be dissolved, prorogued, nor continued sitting longer than six weeks at one time, without their own consent or the special command of the crown. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">8. That the members of the Grand Council shall be allowed for their service ten shillings sterling per diem, during their session and journey to and from the place of meeting; twenty miles to be reckoned a day's journey. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">9. That the assent of the President-General be requisite to all acts of the Grand Council, and that it be his office and duty to cause them to be carried into execution. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10. That the President-General, with the advice of the Grand Council, hold or direct all Indian treaties, in which the general interest of the Colonies may be concerned; and make peace or declare war with Indian nations. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">11. That they make such laws as they judge necessary for regulating all Indian trade. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">12. That they make all purchases from Indians, for the crown, of lands not now within the bounds of particular Colonies, or that shall not be within their bounds when some of them are reduced to more convenient dimensions. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">13. That they make new settlements on such purchases, by granting lands in the King's name, reserving a quitrent to the crown for the use of the general treasury. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">14. That they make laws for regulating and governing such new settlements, till the crown shall think fit to form them into particular governments. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">15. That they raise and pay soldiers and build forts for the defence of any of the Colonies, and equip vessels of force to guard the coasts and protect the trade on the ocean, lakes, or great rivers; but they shall not impress men in any Colony, without the consent of the Legislature. 16. That for these purposes they have power to make laws, and lay and levy such general duties, imposts, or taxes, as to them shall appear most equal and just (considering the ability and other circumstances of the inhabitants in the several Colonies), and such as may be collected with the least inconvenience to the people; rather discouraging luxury, than loading industry with unnecessary burdens. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">17. That they may appoint a General Treasurer and Particular Treasurer in each government when necessary; and, from time to time, may order the sums in the treasuries of each government into the general treasury; or draw on them for special payments, as they find most convenient. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">18. Yet no money to issue but by joint orders of the President-General and Grand Council; except where sums have been appropriated to particular purposes, and the President-General is previously empowered by an act to draw such sums. 19. That the general accounts shall be yearly settled and reported to the several Assemblies. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">20. That a quorum of the Grand Council, empowered to act with the President-General, do consist of twenty-five members; among whom there shall be one or more from a majority of the Colonies. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">21. That the laws made by them for the purposes aforesaid shall not be repugnant, but, as near as may be, agreeable to the laws of England, and shall be transmitted to the King in Council for approbation, as soon as may be after their passing; and if not disapproved within three years after presentation, to remain in force. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">22. That, in case of the death of the President-General, the Speaker of the Grand Council for the time being shall succeed, and be vested with the same powers and authorities, to continue till the King's pleasure be known. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">23. That all military commission officers, whether for land or sea service, to act under this general constitution, shall be nominated by the President-General; but the approbation of the Grand Council is to be obtained, before they receive their commissions. And all civil officers are to be nominated by the Grand Council, and to receive the President-General's approbation before they officiate. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">24. But, in case of vacancy by death or removal of any officer, civil or military, under this constitution, the Governor of the Province in which such vacancy happens may appoint, till the pleasure of the President-General and Grand Council can be known. <span style="display: block; font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">25. That the particular military as well as civil establishments in each Colony remain in their present state, the general constitution notwithstanding; and that on sudden emergencies any Colony may defend itself, and lay the accounts of expense thence arising before the President-General and General Council, who may allow and order payment of the same, as far as they judge such accounts just and reasonable. **__How The Albany Plan of Union Impacted the American Revolution:__** <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Before the Albany Congress, the colonies would meet and discuss issues they had, mostly with the Indians over land. This created the idea that all the colonies should unite for concerted action against common enemies. T he Albany Congress was created by the British Board of Trade. The French and the English were disputing over the lands in the New France territory and the Albany Plan of Union was an attempt to settle the dispute without going to war. It was proposed by Benjamin Franklin and called for a continental assembly to manage trade, Indian policy, and defense in the West. This list of policies was accepted by a committee with only few changes. However, when the document reached Britain, it became clear that it would not be accepted. The British feared that these ideas, and the consolidation of power under the colonies, would spark an interest of independence. As a result of this, the document was never put into action. Although the document was not effective in this manner, it was the first step toward the colonies uniting. As far as the American Revolution is concerned, the Albany Plan of Union was the first step in uniting the colonies under a common interest. In the case of the Albany Plan of Union, the common interest was mending relations with the Iroquois, but this would later transform into a common interest of disliking British policies. Today, the United States is ruled by one central government making decisions for the nation. The Albany Plan of Union was the first document to set forth these practices. These practices can be seen in the Albany Plan of Union in the first guideline, "That the said general government be administered by a President-General, to be appointed and supported by the crown; and a Grand Council, to be chosen by the representatives of the people of the several Colonies met in their respective assemblies." This is similar to the House or Representatives and Senators in The United State's government today. These new ideas made the colonies realize they had a system if they ever needed to be independent for England.

=__<span style="color: #008000; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Suffolk Resolves __= <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">At a meeting of the delegates of every town & district in the county of Suffolk, on tuesday the 6th of Septr ., at the house of Mr. Richard Woodward, of Deadham, & by adjournment, at the house of Mr. [Daniel] Vose, of Milton, on Friday the 9th instant, Joseph Palmer, esq. being chosen moderator, and William Thompson, esq. clerk, a committee was chosen to bring in a report to the convention, and the following being several times read, and put paragraph by paragraph, was unanimously voted, viz. Whereas the power but not the justice, the vengeance but not the wisdom of Great-Britain, which of old persecuted, scourged, and exiled our fugitive parents from their native shores, now pursues us, their guiltless children, with unrelenting severity: And whereas, this, then savage and uncultivated desart, was purchased by the toil and treasure, or acquired by the blood and valor of those our venerable progenitors; to us they bequeathed the dearbought inheritance, to our care and protection they consigned it, and the most sacred obligations are upon us to transmit the glorious purchase, unfettered by power, unclogged with shackles, to our innocent and beloved offspring. On the fortitude, on the wisdom and on the exertions of this important day, is suspended the fate of this new world, and of unborn millions. If a boundless extent of continent, swarming with millions, will tamely submit to live, move and have their being at the arbitrary will of a licentious minister, they basely yield to voluntary slavery, and future generations shall load their memories with incessant execrations.--On the other hand, if we arrest the hand which would ransack our pockets, if we disarm the parricide which points the dagger to our bosoms, if we nobly defeat that fatal edict which proclaims a power to frame laws for us in all cases whatsoever, thereby entailing the endless and numberless curses of slavery upon us, our heirs and their heirs forever; if we successfully resist that unparalleled usurpation of unconstitutional power, whereby our capital is robbed of the means of life; whereby the streets of Boston are thronged with military executioners; whereby our coasts are lined and harbours crouded with ships of war; whereby the charter of the colony, that sacred barrier against the encroachments of tyranny, is mutilated and, in effect, annihilated; whereby a murderous law is framed to shelter villains from the hands of justice; whereby the unalienable and inestimable inheritance, which we derived from nature, the constitution of Britain, and the privileges warranted to us in the charter of the province, is totally wrecked, annulled, and vacated, posterity will acknowledge that virtue which preserved them free and happy; and while we enjoy the rewards and blessings of the faithful, the torrent of panegyrists will roll our reputations to that latest period, when the streams of time shall be absorbed in the abyss of eternity.--Therefore, we have resolved, and do resolve,
 * 1) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That whereas his majesty, George the Third, is the rightful successor to the throne of Great-Britain, and justly entitled to the allegiance of the British realm, and agreeable to compact, of the English colonies in America--therefore, we, the heirs and successors of the first planters of this colony, do cheerfully acknowledge the said George the Third to be our rightful sovereign, and that said covenant is the tenure and claim on which are founded our allegiance and submission.
 * 2) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That it is an indispensable duty which we owe to God, our country, ourselves and posterity, by all lawful ways and means in our power to maintain, defend and preserve those civil and religious rights and liberties, for which many of our fathers fought, bled and died, and to hand them down entire to future generations.
 * 3) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That the late acts of the British parliament for blocking up the harbour of Boston, for altering the established form of government in this colony, and for screening the most flagitious violators of the laws of the province from a legal trial, are gross infractions of those rights to which we are justly entitled by the lasws laws of nature, the British constitution, and the charter of the province.
 * 4) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That no obedience is due from this province to either or any part of the acts above-mentioned, but that they be rejected as the attempts of a wicked administration to enslave America.
 * 5) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That so long as the justices of our superior court of judicature, court of assize, &c. and inferior court of common pleas in this county are appointed, or hold their places, by any other tenure than that which the charter and the laws of the province direct, they must be considered as under undue influence, and are therefore unconstitutional officers, and, as such, no regard ought to be paid to them by the people of this county.
 * 6) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That if the justices of the superior court of judicature, assize, &c. justices of the court of common pleas, or of the general sessions of the peace, shall sit and act during their present disqualified state, this county will support, and bear harmless, all sheriffs and their deputies, constables, jurors and other officers who shall refuse to carry into execution the orders of said courts; and, as far as possible, to prevent the many inconveniencies which must be occasioned by a suspension of the courts of justice, we do most earnestly recommend it to all creditors, that they shew all reasonable and even generous forbearance to their debtors; and to all debtors, to pay their just debts with all possible speed, and if any disputes relative to debts or trespasses shall arise, which cannot be settled by the parties, we recommend it to them to submit all such causes to arbitration; and it is our opinion that the contending parties or either of them, who shall refuse so to do, onght to be considered as co-operating with the enemies of this country.
 * 7) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That it be recommended to the collectors of taxes, constables and all other officers, who have public monies in their hands, to retain the same, and not to make any payment thereof to the provincial county treasurer until the civil government of the province is placed upon a constitutional foundation, or until it shall otherwise be ordered by the proposed provincial Congress.
 * 8) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That the persons who have accepted seats at the council board, by virtue of a mandamus from the King, in conformity to the late act of the British parliament, entitled, an act for the regulating the government of the Massachusetts-Bay, have acted in direct violation of the duty they owe to their country, and have thereby given great and just offence to this people; therefore, resolved, that this county do recommend it to all persons, who have so highly offended by accepting said departments, and have not already publicly resigned their seats at the council board, to make public resignations of their places at said board, on or before the 20th day of this instant, September; and that all persons refusing so to do, shall, from and after said day, be considered by this county as obstinate and incorrigible enemies to this country.
 * 9) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That the fortifications begun and now carrying on upon Boston Neck, are justly alarming to this county, and gives us reason to apprehend some hostile intention against that town, more especially as the commander in chief has, in a very extraordinary manner, removed the powder from the magazine at Charlestown, and has also forhidden the keeper of the magazine at Boston, to deliver out to the owners, the powder, which they had lodged in said magazine.
 * 10) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That the late act of parliament for establishing the Roman Catholic religion and the French laws in that extensive country, now called Canada, is dangerous in an extreme degree to the Protestant religion and to the civil rights and liberties of all America; and, therefore, as men and Protestant Christians, we are indispensubly obliged to take all proper measures for our security.
 * 11) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That whereas our enemies have flattered themselves that they shall make an easy prey of this numerous, brave and hardy people, from an apprehension that they are unacquainted with military discipline; we, therefore, for the honour, defence and security of this county and province, advise, as it has been recommended to take away all commissions from the officers of the militia, that those who now hold commissions, or such other persons, be elected in each town as officers in the militia, as shall be judged of sufficient capacity for that purpose, and who have evidenced themselves the inflexible friends to the rights of the people; and that the inhabitants of those towns and districts, who are qualified, do use their utmost diligence to acquaint themselves with the art of war as soon as possible, and do, for that purpose, appear under arms at least once every week.
 * 12) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That during the present hostile appearances on the part of Great-Britain, notwithstanding the many insults and oppressions which we most sensibly resent, yet, nevertheless, from our affection to his majesty, which we have at all times evidenced, we are determined to act merely upon the defensive, so long as such conduct may be vindicated by reason and the principles of self-preservation, but no longer.
 * 13) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That, as we understand it has been in contemplation to apprehend sundry persons of this county, who have rendered themselves conspicuous in contending for the violated rights and liberties of their countrymen; we do recommend, should such an audacious measure be put in practice, to seize and keep in safe custody, every servant of the present tyrannical and unconstitutional government throughout the county and province, until the persons so apprehended be liberated from the bands of our adversaries, and restored safe and uninjured to their respective friends and families.
 * 14) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That until our rights are fully restored to us, we will, to the utmost of our power, and we recommend the same to the other counties, to withhold all commercial intercourse with Great-Britain, Ireland, and the West-Indies, and abstain from the consumption of British merchandise and manufactures, and especially of East-Indies, and piece goods, with such additions, alterations, and exceptions only, as the General Congress of the colonies may agree to.
 * 15) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That under our present circumstances, it is incumbent on us to encourage arts and manufactures amongst us, by all means in our power, and that be and are hereby appointed a committee, to consider of the best ways and means to promote and establish the same, and to report to this convention as soon as may be.
 * 16) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That the exigencies of our public affairs, demand that a provincial Congress be called to consult such measures as may be adopted, and vigorously executed by the whole people; and we do recommend it to the several towns in this county, to chuse members for such a provincial Congress, to be holden at Concord, on the second Tuesday of October, next ensuing.
 * 17) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That this county, confiding in the wisdom and integrity of the continental Congress, now sitting at Philadelphia, pay all due respect and submission to such measures as may be recommended by them to the colonies, for the restoration and establishment of our just rights, civil and religious, and for renewing that harmony and union between Great-Britain and the colonies, so earnestly wished for by all good men.
 * 18) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That whereas the universal uneasiness which prevails among all orders of men, arising from the wicked and oppressive measures of the present administration, may influence some unthinking persons to commit outrage upon private property; we would heartily recommend to all persons of this community, not to engage in any routs, riots, or licentious attacks upon the properties of any person whatsoever, as being subversive of all order and government; but, by a steady, manly, uniform, and persevering opposition, to convince our enemies, that in a contest so important, in a cause so solemn, our conduct shall be such as to merit the approbation of the wise, and the admiration of the brave and free of every age and of every country.
 * 19) <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">That should our enemies, by any sudden manoeuvres, render it necessary to ask the aid and assistance of our brethren in the country, some one of the committee of correspondence, or a select man of such town, or the town adjoining, where such hostilities shall commence, or shall be expected to commence, shall despatch couriers with written messages to the select men, or committees of correspondence, of the several towns in the vicinity, with a written account of such matter, who shall despatch others to committees more remote, until proper and sufficient assistance be obtained, and that the expense of said couriers be defrayed by the county, until it shall be otherwise ordered by the provincial Congress.

__**How Suffolk Resolves Impacted the American Revolution:**__ <span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> The Suffolk Resolves, a radical set of resolves passed in response to the Coercive Acts, greatly paved the way for the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence. It was made on September 9, 1774 by the leaders of Suffolk County, Massachusetts as a response to the recently passed Massachusetts Government Act. This act was a part of the Intolerable Acts passed by Britain during this time that were designed to restore order in Massachusetts after the Boston Tea Party. The British realized that they had been unsuccessful in controlling the colony because of their independent nature. The Massachusetts Government Act was meant to increase royal control of the colony. It forbade town meetings and any other sign of independent colonial rule. The people of Massachusetts resented this taking away of their independence. Representatives from Suffolk, Middlesex, Essex, and Worcester counties met in Boston to oppose the cruel act. Instead of giving into British demands, this meeting urged those in Massachusetts to close their courts rather than give in. In order to explain their actions, each county that did so issued a set of resolves. The Suffolk Resolves, although similar to the others, received the most attention because it was more eloquent in getting the point across and also because it was supported by the Continental Congress. The resolves planned to boycott British imports and refuse the use of British products, not follow the Massachusetts Government Act, demand resignations from those under the Massachusetts Government Act, refuse to pay taxes until it was repealed, support colonial Massachusetts' government free of British authority, and urge the colonies to raise a militia. It went directly against the ruling of the British government over the colonists and showed that the people of Massachusetts were going to remain independent in their thinking and beliefs. It was a direct sign of rebellion that actually got the approval of other colonies, as shown by when Paul Revere rode to the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The colonies proved that they are able to get together and support something, especially something that would end the cruel treatments of the British. This document was one stop along the road that would lead to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a document that also required solidarity of the colonists and denial of the British, because it was recognized as a major sign of colonial animosity toward the British and their policies for treatment of the colonies. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif;"> =__<span style="color: #008000; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Declaration of the Rights and Grievances __= <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The members of this congress, sincerely devoted, with the warmest sentiments of affection and duty to his majesty's person and government, inviolably attached to the present happy establishment of the protestant succession, and with minds deeply impressed by a sense of the present and impending misfortunes of the British colonies on this continent; having considered as maturely as time would permit, the circumstances of said colonies, esteem it our indispensable duty to make the following declarations, of our humble opinions, respecting the most essentialrights and liberties of the colonists, and of the grievances under which they labor, by reason of several late acts of parliament. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1st. That his majesty's subjects in these colonies, owe the same allegiance to the crown of Great Britain that is owing from his subjects born within the realm, and all due subordination to that august body, the parliament of Great Britain. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2d. That his majesty's liege subjects in these colonies are entitled to all the inherent rights and privileges of his natural born subjects within the kingdom of Great Britain. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3d. That it is inseparably essential to the freedom of a people, and the undoubted rights of Englishmen, that no taxes should be imposed on them, but with their own consent, given personally, or by their representatives. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4th. That the people of these colonies are not, and from their local circumstances, cannot be represented in the house of commons in Great Britain. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5th. That the only representatives of the people of these colonies are persons chosen therein, by themselves; and that no taxes ever have been, or can be constitutionally imposed on them, but by their respective legislatures. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">6th. That all supplies to the crown, being free gifts of the people, it is unreasonable and inconsistent with the principles and spirit of the British constitution, for the people of Great Britain to grant to his majesty the property of the colonists. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">7th. That trial by jury is the inherent and invaluable right of every British subject in these colonies. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">8th. That the late act of parliament entitled, an act for granting and applying certain stamp duties, and other duties in the British colonies and plantations in America, &c., by imposing taxes on the inhabitants of these colonies, and the said act, and several other acts, by extending the jurisdiction of the courts of admiralty beyond its ancient limits, have a manifest tendency to subvert the rights and liberties of the colonists. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">9th. That the duties imposed by several late acts of parliament, from the peculiar circumstances of these colonies, will be extremely burdensome and grievous, and, from the scarcity of specie, the payment of them absolutely impracticable. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10th. That as the profits of the trade of these colonies ultimately centre in Great Britain, to pay for the manufactures which they are obliged to take from thence, they eventually contribute very largely to all supplies granted there to the crown. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">11th. That the restrictions imposed by several late acts of parliament, on the trade of these colonies, will render them unable to purchase the manufactures of Great Britain. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">12th. That the increase, prosperity, and happiness of these colonies, depend on the full and free enjoyment of their rights and liberties, and an intercourse, with Great Britain, mutually affectionate and advantageous. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">13th. That it is the right of the British subjects in these colonies, to petition the king or either house of parliament. <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lastly, That it is the indispensable duty of these colonies to the best of sovereigns, to the mother country, and to themselves, to endeavor, by a loyal and dutiful address to his majesty, and humble application to both houses of parliament, to procure the repeal of the act for granting and applying certain stamp duties, of all clauses of any other acts of parliament, whereby the jurisdiction of the admiralty is extended as aforesaid, and of the other late acts for the restriction of the American commerce.

__**How Declaration of Rights and Grievances Impacted the American Revolution:**__ In 1765, the British Parliament issued the Stamp Act, which put a tax on the colonies. Certain items, such as legal documents, newspapers, and playing cards were printed on special paper that contained a tax stamp. The British tried to convince the colonists that revenue from this act would go toward the debts from the French and Indian War. Instead of going along with this, the colonists were outraged by the extra money they would need to pay for something that did not seem to be their responsibility. They did not believe that they should have to pay the tax, especially since the threat imposed by the French was no longer in place. They also felt it unfair that the British Parliament could make these decisions without any colonial representation being present. As a result of this, delegates from nine colonies created the Stamp Act Congress. The document itself was drafted by John Dickenson of Pennsylvania and presented at the Congress. The document not only opposed the Stamp Act, it also raised the issue of who had the right to tax colonists. The document argued that, because the colonists lacked representation in Parliament, the taxes imposed were unjust. They felt that they should have say in the laws that include them. The document raised several other points of colonial protest, including only the colonial assemblies should have the right to tax the colonies (a form of "no taxation without representation"), colonists should possess the rights of Englishmen, trial by jury was a right, and that without voting rights, Parliament could not represent the colonies. This document was another that would lead to the American Revolution because it showed that the colonists were rejecting royal rule over them. They were, slowly but surely, beginning to realize the unjust principles that Britain placed upon their colonies. It also proved that the colonists were more than able to come unite under a common cause, like they did in the Stamp Act Congress. Although the colonies were so different, they were still able to put their differences aside and unite under a common enemy: the cruelties posed by the British government. This would continue up to and through the American Revolution.

=__<span style="color: #008000; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms __= If it was possible for men who exercise their reason, to believe that the divine Author of our existence intended a part of the human race to hold an absolute property in, and an unbounded power over others, marked out by his infinite goodness and wisdom, as the objects of a legal domination never rightfully resistible, however severe and oppressive, the inhabitants of these Colonies might at least require from the Parliament of //Great Britain// some evidence, that this dreadful authority over them has been granted to that body. But a reverence for our great Creator, principles of humanity, and the dictates of common sense, must convince all those who reflect upon the subject, that Government was instituted to promote the welfare of mankind, and ought to be administered for the attainment of that end. The Legislature of //Great Britain//, however, stimulated by an inordinate passion for a power, not only unjustifiable, but which they know to be peculiarly reprobated by the very Constitution of that Kingdom, and desperate of success in any mode of contest where regard should be had to truth, law, or right, have at length, deserting those, attempted to effect their cruel and impolitick purpose of enslaving these Colonies by violence, and have thereby rendered it necessary for us to close with their last appeal from reason to arms. Yet, however blinded that Assembly may be, by their intemperate rage for unlimited domination, so to slight justice and the opinion of mankind, we esteem ourselves bound, by obligations of respect to the rest of the world, to make known the justice of our cause.

Our forefathers, inhabitants of the Island of //Great Britain//, left their native land, to seek on these shores a residence for civil and religious freedom. At the expense of their blood, at the hazard of their fortunes, without the least charge to the Country from which they removed, by unceasing labour, and an unconquerable spirit, they effected settlements in the distant and inhospitable wilds of //America//, then filled with numerous and warlike nations of barbarians. Societies or Governments, vested with perfect Legislatures, were formed under Charters from the Crown, and a harmonious intercourse was established between the Colonies and the Kingdom from which they derived their origin. The mutual benefits of this union became in a short time so extraordinary, as to excite astonishment. It is universally confessed, that the amazing increase of the wealth, strength, and navigation of the Realm, arose from this source; and the Minister who so wisely and successfully directed the measures of //Great Britain// in the late war, publickly declared, that these Colonies enabled her to triumph over her enemies. Towards the conclusion of that war, it pleased our Sovereign to make a change in his Councils. From that fatal moment, the affairs of the //British// Empire began to fall into confusion, and gradually sliding from the summit of glorious prosperity, to which they had been advanced by the virtues and abilities of one man, are at length distracted by the convulsions that now shake it to its deepest foundations. The new Ministry finding the brave foes of //Britain//, though frequently defeated, yet still contending, took up the unfortunate idea of granting them a hasty peace, and of then subduing her faithful friends.

These devoted Colonies were judged to be in such a state as to present victories without bloodshed, and all the easy emoluments of statutable plunder. The uninterrupted tenour of their peaceable and respectful behaviour, from the beginning of colonization; their dutiful, zealous, and useful services during the war, though so recently and amply acknowledged in the most honourable manner by His Majesty, by the late King, and by Parliament, could not save them from the meditated innovations. Parliament was influenced to adopt the pernicious project; and assuming a new power over them, have, in the course of eleven years, given such decisive specimens of the spirit and consequences attending this power, as to leave no doubt concerning the effects of acquiescence under it. They have undertaken to give and grant our money without our consent, though we have ever exercised an exclusive right to dispose of our own property; statutes have been passed for extending the jurisdiction of Courts of Admiralty and Vice-Admiralty beyond their ancient limits; for depriving us of the accustomed and inestimable privilege of Trial by Jury, in cases affecting both life and property; for suspending the Legislature of one of the Colonies; for interdicting all commerce to the capital of another; and for altering fundamentally the form of Government established by Charter, and secured by acts of its own Legislature, solemnly confirmed by the Crown; for exempting the "murderers" of Colonists from legal trial, and, in effect, from punishment; for erecting in a neighbouring Province, acquired by the joint arms of //Great Britain// and //America//, a despotism dangerous to our very existence; and for quartering soldiers upon the Colonists in time of profound peace. It has also been resolved in Parliament, that Colonists charged with committing certain offences, shall be transported to //England// to be tried.

But why should we enumerate our injuries in detail? By one statute it is declared that Parliament can "of right make laws to bind us in all cases whatsoever." What is to defend us against so enormous, so unlimited a power? Not a single man of those who assume it is chosen by us, or is subject to our control or influence; but, on the contrary, they are all of them exempt from the operation of such laws, and an //American// revenue, if not diverted from the ostensible purposes for which it is raised, would actually lighten their own burdens, in proportion as they increase ours. We saw the misery to which such despotism would reduce us. We, for ten years, incessantly and ineffectually besieged the Throne as supplicants; we reasoned, we remonstrated with Parliament, in the most mild and decent language.

Administration, sensible that we should regard these oppressive measures as freemen ought to do, sent over fleets and armies to enforce them. The indignation of the //Americans// was roused, it is true; but it was the indignation of a virtuous, loyal, and affectionate people. A Congress of Delegates from the United Colonies was assembled at //Philadelphia//, on the fifth day of last //September//. We resolved again to offer an humble and dutiful petition to the King, and also addressed our fellow-subject of //Great Britian//. We have pursued every temperate, every respectful measure; we have even proceeded to break off our commercial intercourse with our fellow-subjects, as the last peaceable admonition, that our attachment to no Nation upon earth should supplant our attachment to liberty. This, we flattered ourselves, was the ultimate step of the controversy; but subsequent events have shown how vain was this hope of finding moderation in our enemies.

Several threatening expressions against the Colonies were inserted in His Majesty's Speech; our Petition, though we were told it was a decent one, and that His Majesty had been pleased to receive it graciously, and to promise laying it before his Parliament, was huddled into both Houses among a bundle of //American// papers, and there neglected.

The Lords and Commons, in their Address, in the month of //February//, said, that "a rebellion at that time actually existed within the Province of //Massachusetts-Bay;// and that those concerned in it had been countenanced and encouraged by unlawful combinations and engagements entered into by His Majesty's subjects in several of the other Colonies; and, therefore, they besought His Majesty, that he would take the most effectual measures to enforce due obedience to the laws and authority of the supreme Legislature. Soon after, the commercial intercourse of whole Colonies with foreign countries, and with each other, was cut off by an act of Parliament; by another, several of them were entirely prohibited from the Fisheries in the seas near their coasts, on which they always depended for their sustenance; and large re-enforcements of ships and troops were immediately sent over to General //Gage//.

Fruitless were all the entreaties, arguments, and eloquence of an illustrious band of the most distinguished Peers and Commoners, who nobly and strenuously asserted the justice of our cause, to stay, or even to mitigate the heedless fury with which these accumulated and unexampled outrages were hurried on. Equally fruitless was the interference of the City of //London//, of //Bristol//, and many other respectable Towns, in our favour. Parliament adopted an insidious manœuvre, calculated to divide us, to establish a perpetual auction of taxations, where Colony should bid against Colony, all of them uninformed what ransom would redeem their lives; and thus to extort from us, at the point of the bayonet, the unknown sums that should be sufficient to gratify, if possible to gratify, Ministerial rapacity, with the miserable indulgence left to us of raising, in our own mode, the prescribed tribute. What terms more rigid and humiliating could have been dictated by remorseless victors to conquered enemies? In our circumstances, to accept them, would be to deserve them.

Soon after intelligence of these proceedings arrived on this Continent, General //Gage//, who, in the course of the last year had taken possession of the Town of //Boston//, in the Province of//Massachusetts-Bay//, and still occupied it as a garrison, on the 19th day of //April// sent out from that place a large detachment of his army, who made an unprovoked assault on the inhabitants of the said Province, at the Town of //Lexington//, as appears by the affidavits of a great number of persons, some of whom were officers and soldiers of that detachment, murdered eight of the inhabitants, and wounded many others. From thence the troops proceeded in warlike array to the Town of //Concord//, where they set upon another party of the inhabitants of the same Province, killing several and wounding more, until compelled to retreat by the country people suddenly assembled to repel this cruel aggression. Hostilities, thus commenced by the //British// Troops, have been since prosecuted by them without regard to faith or reputation. The inhabitants of //Boston//, being confined within that Town by the General, their Governour, and having, in order to procure their dismission, entered into a treaty with him, it was stipulated that the said inhabitants, having deposited their arms with their own Magistrates, should have liberty to depart, taking with them their other effects. They accordingly delivered up their arms; but in open violation of honour, in defiance of the obligation of treaties, which even savage nations esteemed sacred, the Governour ordered the arms deposited as aforesaid, that they might be preserved for their owners, to be seized by a body of soldiers; detained the greatest part of the inhabitants in the Town, and compelled the few who were permitted to retire, to leave their most valuable effects behind.

By this perfidy, wives are separated from their husbands, children from their parents, the aged and the sick from their relations and friends, who wish to attend and comfort them; and those who have been used to live in plenty, and even elegance, are reduced to deplorable distress.

The General, further emulating his Ministerial masters, by a Proclamation, bearing date on the 12th day of //June//, after venting the grossest falsehoods and calumnies against the good people of these Colonies, proceeds to "declare them all, either by name or description, to be rebels and traitors; to supersede the course of the common law, and instead thereof to publish and order the use and exercise of the law martial." His troops have butchered our countrymen; have wantonly burnt //Charlestown//, besides a considerable number of houses in other places; our ships and vessels are seized; the necessary supplies of provisions are intercepted, and he is exerting his utmost power to spread destruction and devastation around him.

We have received certain intelligence, that General //Carleton//, the Governour of //Canada//, is instigating the people of that Province, and the Indians, to fall upon us; and we have but too much reason to apprehend, that schemes have been formed to excite domestick enemies against us. In brief, a part of these Colonies now feel, and all of them are sure of feeling, as far as the vengeance of Administration can inflict them, the complicated calamities of fire, sword, and famine. We are reduced to the alternative of choosing an unconditional submission to the tyranny of irritated Ministers, or resistance by force. The latter is our choice. We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing so dreadful as voluntary slavery. Honour, justice, and humanity, forbid us tamely to surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors, and which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We cannot endure the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that wretchedness which inevitably awaits them, if we basely entail hereditary bondage upon them.

Our cause is just. Our union is perfect. Our internal resources are great, and, if necessary, foreign assistance is undoubtedly attainable. We gratefully acknowledge, as signal instances of the Divine favour towards us, that His providence would not permit us to be called into this severe controversy until we were grown up to our present strength, had been previously exercised in warlike operations, and possessed of the means of defending ourselves. With hearts fortified with these animating reflections, we most solemnly, before //God// and the world, //declare//, that, exerting the utmost energy of those powers which our beneficent Creator hath graciously bestowed upon us, the arms we have been compelled by our enemies to assume, we will, in defiance of every hazard, with unabating firmness and perseverance, employ for the preservation of our liberties; being, with one mind, resolved to die freemen rather than live slaves.

Lest this declaration should disquiet the minds of our friends and fellow-subjects in any part of the Empire, we assure them that we mean not to dissolve that union which has so long and so happily subsisted between us, and which we sincerely wish to see restored. Necessity has not yet driven us into that desperate measure, or induced us to excite any other nation to war against them. We have not raised armies with ambitious designs of separating from //Great Britain//, and establishing independent states. We fight not for glory or for conquest. We exhibit to mankind the remarkable spectacle of a people attacked by unprovoked enemies, without any imputation or even suspicion of offence. They boast of their privileges and civilization, and yet proffer no milder conditions than servitude or death.

In our own native land, in defence of the freedom that is our birth-right, and which we ever enjoyed till the late violation of it; for the protection of our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our forefathers and ourselves, against violence actually offered, we have taken up arms. We shall lay them down when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, and all danger of their being renewed shall be removed, and not before.

With an humble confidence in the mercies of the supreme and impartial Judge and Ruler of the Universe, we most devoutly implore his divine goodness to protect us happily through this great conflict, to dispose our adversaries to reconciliation on reasonable terms, and thereby to relieve the Empire from the calamities of civil war.

**__How Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms Affected the American Revolution:__** For a little over a decade the colonies repeatedly tried to petition their rights from England. These petitions were ignored by British Parliament and only caused them to pass more Acts, angering the colonists. After the Boston Tea Party had taken place in 1774, the British passed the Coercive Acts. The Coercive Act, or Intolerable Act were a series of laws enforcing British rule over the colonies. The colonists viewed this as a threat to their colonial charters and natural rights, making the colonists angrier and want rights. The Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms was the colonists last attempt at pleading for their natural rights. The Declaration was written by Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry and other Patriots trying to gain support. The colonists were not yet declaring independence from Britian, but stating that they had rights that Britian could no longer control. The Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms was one of the last steps that the colonists took before declaring their independence from their mother nation. King George III did not respond to the declaration and kept trying to enforce the Parliamentary Acts passed before. Some ideas within the declaration include no taxation without representation and how they would rather die freemen then as slaves to the British government. The American Revolution is directly linked the Declaration of Taking Up Arms, it was the colonies last tactic toward having rights without declaring independence.

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