AP Success - AP US History: Colonial Resistance to Stamp Act, 1765
Hinshelwood, Archibald. "Report on reaction to the Stamp Act," 1765."There is a violent spirit of opposition raised on the Continent against the execution of the Stamp Act, the mob in Boston have carried it very high against Mr. Oliver the Secry (a Town born child) for his acceptance of an office in consequence of that act. They have even proceeded to some violence, and burnt him in Effigy &c. They threaten to pull down & burn the Stamp Office now building, and that they will hold every man as Infamous that shall presume to carry the Stamp Act into Execution; so that it is thought Mr. Oliver will resign. I don’t find any such turbulent spirit to prevail among us, if it should, the means are in our Hands to prevent any tumults or Insults; what the consequences may be in the Colonies who have no military force to keep the rabble in order, I cannot pretend to say."
Question 1
According to the source, what was the reaction of the Boston populace to the Stamp Act?
Violent opposition including threats and effigy burning
Formal petitions to the British Parliament for repeal
Immediate resignation of officials involved with the Act
Passive compliance with the Stamp Act provisions
Question 2
The source mentions 'Mr. Oliver' in the context of the Stamp Act. What role did he play?
He led the mob against the Stamp Act
He was a British official advocating for the Act
He was a colonial representative who opposed the Act
He accepted an office to carry out the Stamp Act
Question 3
What does the source suggest about the potential for unrest in colonies without a military force?
Colonies without military force would likely support the Stamp Act
Military force was seen as unnecessary for dealing with opposition
There could be tumults or insults due to the inability to control the populace
The presence of military force would likely incite more violence
Question 4
The author of the source expresses a belief that they have the means to prevent any tumults or insults. What can be inferred about the author's location or position?
The author is a colonial with no official authority or military support
The author is likely from a colony with a military presence or authority
The author is from Boston and part of the opposition
The author is a British official stationed in England
Question 5
The burning of Mr. Oliver in effigy by the mob is an example of which of the following?
Symbolic protest against those enforcing unpopular legislation
A common colonial celebration of government officials
A legal form of punishment for treason in colonial America
A ritual to show support for the British Crown
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