The Stamp Act Crisis and Colonial Unity in Pre-Revolutionary America

Explore the roots of American colonial unity through an examination of the Stamp Act crisis in this 41-minute lecture from Yale University's course on the American Revolution. Delve into the aftermath of the French and Indian War, analyzing how Britain's financial struggles led to new taxation policies that sparked widespread colonial dissent. Investigate the Sugar Act, Stamp Act, and other measures that colonists viewed as infringements on their rights as British subjects. Examine the concept of virtual representation and its implications for colonial liberties. Conclude with an analysis of Patrick Henry's influential stance on the Stamp Act, highlighting how shared grievances against British policies laid the groundwork for future colonial collaboration and ultimately, revolution.