250 years ago today, Congress votes to create an Army, which was initially done by adopting the militias sitting around Boston besieging the British. There units had existed to this point as militia belonging to each colony.
Semiquincentennial of the American Revolution
- Thread starter Tidewater
- Start date
The resolution text on creating the Continental Army:
Resolved, That six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia; that each company consist of a captain, three lieutenants, four serjeants (sic), four corporals, a drummer or trumpeter, and sixty-eight privates. That each company, as soon as compleated, shall march and join the army near Boston, to be there employed as light infantry, under the command of the chief Officer in that army. That the pay of the Officers and privates be as follows, viz, a captain ® 20 dollars per month; a lieutenant @ 14 dollars; a serjeant @ 8 dollars; a corporal @ 7⅓ dollars; drummer or [trumpeter] @ 7⅓ doll.; privates @ 6⅔ dollars; to find their own arms and cloaths.
That the form of the enlistment be in the following words:
"I have, this day, voluntarily enlisted myself, as a soldier, in the American continental army, for one year, unless sooner discharged: And I do bind myself to conform, in all instances, to such rules and regulations, as are, or shall be, established for the government of the said Army."
Upon motion, Resolved, That Mr. [George] Washington, Mr. [Philip] Schuyler, Mr. [Silas] Deane, Mr. [Thomas] Cushing, and Mr. [Joseph] Hewes be a committee to bring in a draft of Rules and regulations for the government of the army.
Resolved, That six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia; that each company consist of a captain, three lieutenants, four serjeants (sic), four corporals, a drummer or trumpeter, and sixty-eight privates. That each company, as soon as compleated, shall march and join the army near Boston, to be there employed as light infantry, under the command of the chief Officer in that army. That the pay of the Officers and privates be as follows, viz, a captain ® 20 dollars per month; a lieutenant @ 14 dollars; a serjeant @ 8 dollars; a corporal @ 7⅓ dollars; drummer or [trumpeter] @ 7⅓ doll.; privates @ 6⅔ dollars; to find their own arms and cloaths.
That the form of the enlistment be in the following words:
"I have, this day, voluntarily enlisted myself, as a soldier, in the American continental army, for one year, unless sooner discharged: And I do bind myself to conform, in all instances, to such rules and regulations, as are, or shall be, established for the government of the said Army."
Upon motion, Resolved, That Mr. [George] Washington, Mr. [Philip] Schuyler, Mr. [Silas] Deane, Mr. [Thomas] Cushing, and Mr. [Joseph] Hewes be a committee to bring in a draft of Rules and regulations for the government of the army.
250 years ago today, ...
Samuel Ward reported a resolution:
"That a General be appointed to command all the continental forces, raised, or to be raised, for the defence of American liberty. That five hundred dollars, per month, be allowed for his pay and expences."
Thomas Johnson of Maryland, nominated Colonel George Washington of Virginia, whereupon, Washington recused himself and left to go read in the library.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of a general, by ballot, when George Washington, Esq. was unanimously elected.
John Adams had labored for days to build a consensus for Washington, binding north and south behind a commander “who can unite the colonies better than any other person living.”
Colonel Washington had become General Washington.
Samuel Ward reported a resolution:
"That a General be appointed to command all the continental forces, raised, or to be raised, for the defence of American liberty. That five hundred dollars, per month, be allowed for his pay and expences."
Thomas Johnson of Maryland, nominated Colonel George Washington of Virginia, whereupon, Washington recused himself and left to go read in the library.
The Congress then proceeded to the choice of a general, by ballot, when George Washington, Esq. was unanimously elected.
John Adams had labored for days to build a consensus for Washington, binding north and south behind a commander “who can unite the colonies better than any other person living.”
Colonel Washington had become General Washington.
250 years ago today, Washington was offeed command of the army. In accepting the position, Washington said this:
"Mr. PRESIDENT,
Tho' I am truly sensible of the high Honour done me, in this Appointment, yet I feel great distress, from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important Trust: However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfavourable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered, by every Gentleman in the room, that I, this day, declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the Command I am honored with.
As to pay, Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress, that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to have accepted this arduous employment, at the expence of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit from it. I will keep an exact Account of my expences. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I desire."
Not self-aggradizing, Humble, Conscious of his limitations. Very un-21st century in his attitude.
"Mr. PRESIDENT,
Tho' I am truly sensible of the high Honour done me, in this Appointment, yet I feel great distress, from a consciousness that my abilities and military experience may not be equal to the extensive and important Trust: However, as the Congress desire it, I will enter upon the momentous duty, and exert every power I possess in their service, and for support of the glorious cause. I beg they will accept my most cordial thanks for this distinguished testimony of their approbation.
But, lest some unlucky event should happen, unfavourable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered, by every Gentleman in the room, that I, this day, declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the Command I am honored with.
As to pay, Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress, that, as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to have accepted this arduous employment, at the expence of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit from it. I will keep an exact Account of my expences. Those, I doubt not, they will discharge, and that is all I desire."
Not self-aggradizing, Humble, Conscious of his limitations. Very un-21st century in his attitude.
Overnight, outside Boston, 1,200 colonial troops under Colonel William Prescott fortify Breed’s Hill, a strategically vital position overlooking the city.
From this position, they could threaten the Royal Navy, on which the British military presence in Boston depended. No ships, no supplies. No supplies, eventual surrender. The British could not stand a colonist military presence on Breed's Hil.
From this position, they could threaten the Royal Navy, on which the British military presence in Boston depended. No ships, no supplies. No supplies, eventual surrender. The British could not stand a colonist military presence on Breed's Hil.
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The British, seeing the colonists fortifying Breed's Hill, send 3,000 troops across the drive them off. At 3:00 pm, the British assault began.
Taking horrendous casualties, the Britsh succeeded in seizing the hieghts and driving the Americans off the peninsula.
Joseph Warren, one of the American commanders was killed.
The Americans lost 350 men killed wounded and captured. The British lost 1,000 killed & wounded, about one third of the men engaged. Any hopes the British may have had of ending this without open warfare faded that day.
Taking horrendous casualties, the Britsh succeeded in seizing the hieghts and driving the Americans off the peninsula.
Joseph Warren, one of the American commanders was killed.
The Americans lost 350 men killed wounded and captured. The British lost 1,000 killed & wounded, about one third of the men engaged. Any hopes the British may have had of ending this without open warfare faded that day.
These casualties have to be viewed in the lens of the much smaller populations back then...
250 years ago today, George Washington wrote Martha: “My Dearest, I am now set down to write to you on a subject which fills me with inexpressable concern—and this concern is greatly aggravated and Increased when I reflect on the uneasiness I know it will give you—It has been determined in Congress, that the whole Army raised for the defence of the American Cause shall be put under my care.”
He then encouraged her to stay strong, follow whatever living arrangements bring her comfort, and enclosed his will in case of his death.
He then encouraged her to stay strong, follow whatever living arrangements bring her comfort, and enclosed his will in case of his death.
250 years ago today, Congress issued Washington his commission:
This Congress having appointed you to be General and Commander in chief of the Army of the united Colonies and of all the forces raised ... for the defence of American liberty and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof, you are to repair with all expedition to the colony of Massachusetts bay and take charge of the army of the united colonies.
For your better direction
1. You are to make a return to us as soon as possible of all forces which you shall have under your command together with their military stores and provisions. And also as exact an Account as you can obtain of the forces which compose the British Army in America.
2. You are not to disband any of the men you find raised until further direction ...
3. In all cases of vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of a Colonel or other inferior officer, you are ... to fill up such vacancy until it shall be otherwise ordered by the provincial Convention or Assembly of the colony from whence the troops in which such vacancy happen, shall direct otherwise.
4. You are to victual at the continental expence all such volunteers as have joined or shall join the united Army.
5. You shall take every method in your power consistent with prudence, to destroy or make prisoners of all persons who now are or who hereafter shall appear in Arms against the good people of the united colonies.
6. And whereas all particulars cannot be foreseen, ... you are therefore upon all such accidents or any occasions that may happen, to use your best circumspection and (advising with your council of war) to order and dispose of the said Army under your command as may be most advantageous for the obtaining the end for which these forces have been raised, making it your special care in discharge of the great trust committed unto you, that the liberties of America receive no detriment.
This Congress having appointed you to be General and Commander in chief of the Army of the united Colonies and of all the forces raised ... for the defence of American liberty and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof, you are to repair with all expedition to the colony of Massachusetts bay and take charge of the army of the united colonies.
For your better direction
1. You are to make a return to us as soon as possible of all forces which you shall have under your command together with their military stores and provisions. And also as exact an Account as you can obtain of the forces which compose the British Army in America.
2. You are not to disband any of the men you find raised until further direction ...
3. In all cases of vacancy occasioned by the death or removal of a Colonel or other inferior officer, you are ... to fill up such vacancy until it shall be otherwise ordered by the provincial Convention or Assembly of the colony from whence the troops in which such vacancy happen, shall direct otherwise.
4. You are to victual at the continental expence all such volunteers as have joined or shall join the united Army.
5. You shall take every method in your power consistent with prudence, to destroy or make prisoners of all persons who now are or who hereafter shall appear in Arms against the good people of the united colonies.
6. And whereas all particulars cannot be foreseen, ... you are therefore upon all such accidents or any occasions that may happen, to use your best circumspection and (advising with your council of war) to order and dispose of the said Army under your command as may be most advantageous for the obtaining the end for which these forces have been raised, making it your special care in discharge of the great trust committed unto you, that the liberties of America receive no detriment.
250 years ago today, Thomas Jefferson reported to Congress as a Virginia delegate. (States voted as states, so the size of the state's delegation mattered only in determining the "sense of the delegation." Jefferson would not cast his own ballot.).
When did they quit describing themselves as "colonies" and begin with "State?"
Not universal, but I think it was once the declaration of independence was issued.
(Of course, Virginia declared her independence before the other twelve.)
It would not surprise me if some individuals continued to call them "colonies" after the declaration of independence, (or referred to them as "states" before the declaration), but generally I would say the dividing line was the DoI.
250 years ago today, Washington departs Philly for the army outside Boston. He dashes off a final letter to Martha:
“As I am within a few Minutes of leaving this City, I could not think of departing from it without dropping you a line … I retain an unalterable affection for you, which neither time or distance can change.”
Meanwhile Congress resolves to issue $2 million in paper currency backed by nothing but faith in the united colonies. This is the first of many issues of paper money backed by nothing that will eventually ruin the credit of the coloniess/states.
“As I am within a few Minutes of leaving this City, I could not think of departing from it without dropping you a line … I retain an unalterable affection for you, which neither time or distance can change.”
Meanwhile Congress resolves to issue $2 million in paper currency backed by nothing but faith in the united colonies. This is the first of many issues of paper money backed by nothing that will eventually ruin the credit of the coloniess/states.
250 years ago, Washington arrives in New York en route to Boston to assume command of the colonial army.
He intercepts a letter addressed to Congress announcing the Battle of Bunker Hill.
He forwards it to Philly along with his endorsement asking Congress to send powder, which is a critical need for the army.
He intercepts a letter addressed to Congress announcing the Battle of Bunker Hill.
He forwards it to Philly along with his endorsement asking Congress to send powder, which is a critical need for the army.
250 years ago today, the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of War (which today would be called regulations for the Army):
Rules and Regulations
Whereas his Majesty’s most faithful subjects in these Colonies are reduced to a dangerous and critical situation, by the attempts of the British Ministry, to carry into execution, by force of arms, several unconstitutional and oppressive acts of the British parliament for laying taxes in America, to enforce the collection of these taxes, and for altering and changing the constitution and internal police of some of these Colonies, in violation of the natural and civil rights of the Colonies.
And whereas hostilities have been actually commenced in Massachusetts Bay, by the British troops, under the command of General Gage, and the lives of a number of the inhabitants of that Colony destroyed; the town of Boston not only having been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy’s country, but the inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to be justified even towards declared enemies.
And whereas large reinforcements have been ordered, and are soon expected, for the declared purpose of compelling these Colonies to submit to the operation of the said acts, which hath rendered it necessary, and an indispensable duty, for the express purpose of securing and defending these Colonies, and preserving them in safety against all attempts to carry the said acts into execution; that an armed force be raised sufficient to defeat such hostile designs, and preserve and defend the lives, liberties and immunities of the Colonists: for the due regulating and well ordering of which;—
Resolved, That the following Rules and Orders be attended to, and observed by such forces as are or may hereafter be raised for the purposes aforesaid:
Article I. That every officer ...and every soldier who shall serve in the Continental Army, shall ... subscribe these rules and regulations.
Art. II. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers, diligently to attend Divine Service; and all officers and soldiers who shall behave indecently or irreverently at any place of Divine Worship, shall, ... for his first offence, forfeit One Sixth of a Dollar, ... ; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a like sum, but be confined for twenty-four hours...; which money so forfeited, shall be applied to the use of the sick soldiers of the troop or company to which the offender belongs.
Art. III. [Any NCO] or soldier shall use any profane oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the second article; and if a commissioned officer ... he shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence, the sum of Four Shillings, lawful money.
And so on for 66 more articles.
Rules and Regulations
Whereas his Majesty’s most faithful subjects in these Colonies are reduced to a dangerous and critical situation, by the attempts of the British Ministry, to carry into execution, by force of arms, several unconstitutional and oppressive acts of the British parliament for laying taxes in America, to enforce the collection of these taxes, and for altering and changing the constitution and internal police of some of these Colonies, in violation of the natural and civil rights of the Colonies.
And whereas hostilities have been actually commenced in Massachusetts Bay, by the British troops, under the command of General Gage, and the lives of a number of the inhabitants of that Colony destroyed; the town of Boston not only having been long occupied as a garrisoned town in an enemy’s country, but the inhabitants thereof treated with a severity and cruelty not to be justified even towards declared enemies.
And whereas large reinforcements have been ordered, and are soon expected, for the declared purpose of compelling these Colonies to submit to the operation of the said acts, which hath rendered it necessary, and an indispensable duty, for the express purpose of securing and defending these Colonies, and preserving them in safety against all attempts to carry the said acts into execution; that an armed force be raised sufficient to defeat such hostile designs, and preserve and defend the lives, liberties and immunities of the Colonists: for the due regulating and well ordering of which;—
Resolved, That the following Rules and Orders be attended to, and observed by such forces as are or may hereafter be raised for the purposes aforesaid:
Article I. That every officer ...and every soldier who shall serve in the Continental Army, shall ... subscribe these rules and regulations.
Art. II. It is earnestly recommended to all officers and soldiers, diligently to attend Divine Service; and all officers and soldiers who shall behave indecently or irreverently at any place of Divine Worship, shall, ... for his first offence, forfeit One Sixth of a Dollar, ... ; for the second offence, he shall not only forfeit a like sum, but be confined for twenty-four hours...; which money so forfeited, shall be applied to the use of the sick soldiers of the troop or company to which the offender belongs.
Art. III. [Any NCO] or soldier shall use any profane oath or execration, shall incur the penalties expressed in the second article; and if a commissioned officer ... he shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence, the sum of Four Shillings, lawful money.
And so on for 66 more articles.
250 years ago today, George Washington finished his nine-day journey to Massachusetts to take command of the American forces assembled outside Boston.
250 years ago today, General George Washington publishes general orders for the Continental Army:
"The Continental Congress having now taken all the Troops of the several Colonies, which have been raised, or which may be hereafter raised, for the support and defence of the Liberties of America; into their Pay and Service: They are now the Troops of the United Provinces of North America; and it is hoped that all Distinctions of Colonies will be laid aside; so that one and the same spirit may animate the whole, and the only Contest be, who shall render, on this great and trying occasion, the most essential service to the great and common cause in which we are all engaged.
It is required and expected that exact discipline be observed, and due Subordination prevail thro’ the whole Army, as a Failure in these most essential points must necessarily produce extreme Hazard, Disorder and Confusion; and end in shameful disappointment and disgrace.
The General most earnestly requires, and expects, a due observance of those articles of war, established for the Government of the army, which forbid profane cursing, swearing & drunkeness; And in like manner requires & expects, of all Officers, and Soldiers, not engaged on actual duty, a punctual attendance on divine service, to implore the blessings of heaven upon the means used for our safety and defence."
"The Continental Congress having now taken all the Troops of the several Colonies, which have been raised, or which may be hereafter raised, for the support and defence of the Liberties of America; into their Pay and Service: They are now the Troops of the United Provinces of North America; and it is hoped that all Distinctions of Colonies will be laid aside; so that one and the same spirit may animate the whole, and the only Contest be, who shall render, on this great and trying occasion, the most essential service to the great and common cause in which we are all engaged.
It is required and expected that exact discipline be observed, and due Subordination prevail thro’ the whole Army, as a Failure in these most essential points must necessarily produce extreme Hazard, Disorder and Confusion; and end in shameful disappointment and disgrace.
The General most earnestly requires, and expects, a due observance of those articles of war, established for the Government of the army, which forbid profane cursing, swearing & drunkeness; And in like manner requires & expects, of all Officers, and Soldiers, not engaged on actual duty, a punctual attendance on divine service, to implore the blessings of heaven upon the means used for our safety and defence."
250 years ago today, Congress issues a Declaration on the Necessity of Taking up Arms. Thomas Jefferson wrote the first draft and a committee, including John Dickinson toned it down a bit. Excerpted version below:
If it was possible for men, … to hold an absolute property in, and an unbounded power over others, … 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. … 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, … attempted to effect their cruel and impolitic 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. … We esteem ourselves bound by obligations of respect to the rest of the world, to make known the justice of our cause.
Our forefathers…left their native land, to seek on these shores a residence for civil and religious freedom. … By unceasing labour, and an unconquerable spirit, they effected settlements in the distant and unhospitable wilds of America. … Societies or governments, … were formed under charters from the crown, and an harmonious intercourse was established between the colonies and the kingdom from which they derived their origin. … The minister, who so wisely and successfully directed the measures of Great-Britain in the late war, publicly declared, that these colonies enabled her to triumph over her enemies. …
[The] useful services [of these devoted colonies] during the war, … could not save them from the meditated innovations. -- Parliament … assuming a new power over them, … leave no doubt concerning the effects of acquiescence under it. They … grant our money without our consent, … statutes have been passed for extending the jurisdiction of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty beyond their ancient limits; for depriving us of … trial by jury, … ; 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 … ; for exempting the "murderers" of colonists from legal trial, and in effect, from punishment; for erecting in a neighbouring province, … a despotism dangerous to our very existence; and for quartering soldiers upon the colonists in time of profound peace. …
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; … [They have enacted] an American revenue… [which] would actually lighten their own burdens in proportion, as they increase ours. … 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. … We resolved again to offer an humble and dutiful petition to the King, and also addressed our fellow-subjects of Great-Britain. … 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. -- How vain was this hope…
The lords and commons … said, that "a rebellion at that time actually existed within the province of Massachusetts-Bay; and … besought his majesty, that he would take the most effectual measures to inforce due obediance to the laws and authority of the supreme legislature." …
Fruitless were all the entreaties. … Parliament … establish a perpetual auction of taxations where colony should bid against colony, … 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.
… General Gage, … on the 19th day of April, … at the town of Lexington, … murdered eight of the inhabitants, and wounded many others. From thence the troops proceeded in warlike array to the town of Concord, … killing several and wounding more, …
The general, … on the 12th day of June, … "declare them all, … to be rebels and traitors, to supersede the course of the common law, … His troops have butchered our countrymen, have wantonly burnt Charlestown … ; our ships and vessels are seized; …
General Carleton, the governor of Canada, is instigating the people of that province and the Indians to fall upon us; … schemes have been formed to excite domestic enemies against us. … We are reduced to the alternative of chusing 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 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 perseverence, employ for the preservation of our liberties; being with one mind resolved to die freemen rather than to live slaves.
… 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, … for the protection of our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our fore-fathers 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.
If it was possible for men, … to hold an absolute property in, and an unbounded power over others, … 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. … 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, … attempted to effect their cruel and impolitic 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. … We esteem ourselves bound by obligations of respect to the rest of the world, to make known the justice of our cause.
Our forefathers…left their native land, to seek on these shores a residence for civil and religious freedom. … By unceasing labour, and an unconquerable spirit, they effected settlements in the distant and unhospitable wilds of America. … Societies or governments, … were formed under charters from the crown, and an harmonious intercourse was established between the colonies and the kingdom from which they derived their origin. … The minister, who so wisely and successfully directed the measures of Great-Britain in the late war, publicly declared, that these colonies enabled her to triumph over her enemies. …
[The] useful services [of these devoted colonies] during the war, … could not save them from the meditated innovations. -- Parliament … assuming a new power over them, … leave no doubt concerning the effects of acquiescence under it. They … grant our money without our consent, … statutes have been passed for extending the jurisdiction of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty beyond their ancient limits; for depriving us of … trial by jury, … ; 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 … ; for exempting the "murderers" of colonists from legal trial, and in effect, from punishment; for erecting in a neighbouring province, … a despotism dangerous to our very existence; and for quartering soldiers upon the colonists in time of profound peace. …
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; … [They have enacted] an American revenue… [which] would actually lighten their own burdens in proportion, as they increase ours. … 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. … We resolved again to offer an humble and dutiful petition to the King, and also addressed our fellow-subjects of Great-Britain. … 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. -- How vain was this hope…
The lords and commons … said, that "a rebellion at that time actually existed within the province of Massachusetts-Bay; and … besought his majesty, that he would take the most effectual measures to inforce due obediance to the laws and authority of the supreme legislature." …
Fruitless were all the entreaties. … Parliament … establish a perpetual auction of taxations where colony should bid against colony, … 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.
… General Gage, … on the 19th day of April, … at the town of Lexington, … murdered eight of the inhabitants, and wounded many others. From thence the troops proceeded in warlike array to the town of Concord, … killing several and wounding more, …
The general, … on the 12th day of June, … "declare them all, … to be rebels and traitors, to supersede the course of the common law, … His troops have butchered our countrymen, have wantonly burnt Charlestown … ; our ships and vessels are seized; …
General Carleton, the governor of Canada, is instigating the people of that province and the Indians to fall upon us; … schemes have been formed to excite domestic enemies against us. … We are reduced to the alternative of chusing 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 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 perseverence, employ for the preservation of our liberties; being with one mind resolved to die freemen rather than to live slaves.
… 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, … for the protection of our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our fore-fathers 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.
The Continental Congress submits another petition to the King thathe save them from "artful and cruel" ministers.
To the King's most excellent Majesty:
MOST GRACIOUS SOVEREIGN,
We, your Majesty's faithful subjects … entreat your Majesty's gracious attention to this our humble petition.
The union between our Mother country and these colonies … produced benefits so remarkably important, … that the wonder and envy of other Nations were excited. …
Her rivals [i.e. France] … resolved to prevent her receiving such continual and formidable accessions of wealth and strength, by checking the growth of these settlements …
… Every friend to the interests of Great Britain and these colonies, entertained pleasing and reasonable expectations of seeing … an enlargement of the dominions of the Crown, and the removal of ancient and warlike enemies to a greater distance.
At the conclusion, therefore, of the late war, … your loyal colonists … doubted not but that they should be permitted, with the rest of the empire, to share in the blessings of peace, and the emoluments of victory and conquest. … [But] they were alarmed by a new system of statutes and regulations adopted for the administration of the colonies …
…This system … appeared to be injurious to the commerce and prosperity of Great Britain. …
Your Majesty's Ministers, persevering in their measures, and proceeding to open hostilities for enforcing them, have compelled us to arm in our own defence. … we think ourselves required by indispensable obligations to Almighty God, to your Majesty, to our fellow subjects, and to ourselves, immediately to use all the means in our power … for stopping the further effusion of blood, and for averting the impending calamities that threaten the British Empire.
… We therefore pray, that your royal magnanimity and benevolence may make the most favourable construction of our expressions on so uncommon an occasion. … [We call] a just attention to our own preservation against those artful and cruel enemies, who abuse your royal confidence and authority, for the purpose of effecting our destruction.
… We not only most ardently desire the former harmony between her and these colonies may be restored, but that a concord may be established between them upon so firm a basis as to perpetuate its blessings, uninterrupted by any future dissensions, to succeeding generations in both countries …
We … assure your Majesty, that … our breasts retain too tender a regard for the kingdom from which we derive our origin, to request such a reconciliation as might in any manner be inconsistent with her dignity or her welfare. …
We … beseech your Majesty, that your royal authority and influence may be graciously interposed to procure us relief from our afflicting fears and jealousies … and to settle peace through every part of your dominions, … that your Majesty be pleased to direct some mode, … [for] improving into a happy and permanent reconciliation; … [and that] measures may be taken for preventing the further destruction of the lives of your Majesty's subjects…
That your Majesty may enjoy a long and prosperous reign, … is our sincere and fervent prayer.
And, the idea is "Good king, bad ministers." The colonies were saying, "If only His Majesty would stop listening to those bad ministers and listen to us, all could still be put right." Unfortunately for him, George was not in a mood.
To the King's most excellent Majesty:
MOST GRACIOUS SOVEREIGN,
We, your Majesty's faithful subjects … entreat your Majesty's gracious attention to this our humble petition.
The union between our Mother country and these colonies … produced benefits so remarkably important, … that the wonder and envy of other Nations were excited. …
Her rivals [i.e. France] … resolved to prevent her receiving such continual and formidable accessions of wealth and strength, by checking the growth of these settlements …
… Every friend to the interests of Great Britain and these colonies, entertained pleasing and reasonable expectations of seeing … an enlargement of the dominions of the Crown, and the removal of ancient and warlike enemies to a greater distance.
At the conclusion, therefore, of the late war, … your loyal colonists … doubted not but that they should be permitted, with the rest of the empire, to share in the blessings of peace, and the emoluments of victory and conquest. … [But] they were alarmed by a new system of statutes and regulations adopted for the administration of the colonies …
…This system … appeared to be injurious to the commerce and prosperity of Great Britain. …
Your Majesty's Ministers, persevering in their measures, and proceeding to open hostilities for enforcing them, have compelled us to arm in our own defence. … we think ourselves required by indispensable obligations to Almighty God, to your Majesty, to our fellow subjects, and to ourselves, immediately to use all the means in our power … for stopping the further effusion of blood, and for averting the impending calamities that threaten the British Empire.
… We therefore pray, that your royal magnanimity and benevolence may make the most favourable construction of our expressions on so uncommon an occasion. … [We call] a just attention to our own preservation against those artful and cruel enemies, who abuse your royal confidence and authority, for the purpose of effecting our destruction.
… We not only most ardently desire the former harmony between her and these colonies may be restored, but that a concord may be established between them upon so firm a basis as to perpetuate its blessings, uninterrupted by any future dissensions, to succeeding generations in both countries …
We … assure your Majesty, that … our breasts retain too tender a regard for the kingdom from which we derive our origin, to request such a reconciliation as might in any manner be inconsistent with her dignity or her welfare. …
We … beseech your Majesty, that your royal authority and influence may be graciously interposed to procure us relief from our afflicting fears and jealousies … and to settle peace through every part of your dominions, … that your Majesty be pleased to direct some mode, … [for] improving into a happy and permanent reconciliation; … [and that] measures may be taken for preventing the further destruction of the lives of your Majesty's subjects…
That your Majesty may enjoy a long and prosperous reign, … is our sincere and fervent prayer.
And, the idea is "Good king, bad ministers." The colonies were saying, "If only His Majesty would stop listening to those bad ministers and listen to us, all could still be put right." Unfortunately for him, George was not in a mood.
250 years ago today was a Sunday, so Congress transacted no business. However, the day prior, the had adopted another appeal to the British people. Full text here.
“The Twelve United Colonies, by their Delegates in Congress, to the Inhabitants of Great Britain” July 8, 1775
Friends, Countrymen, and Brethren!
… We intreat your serious attention to our second attempt to prevent the dissolution [of our ties]. … When reduced to the melancholy alternative of renouncing your favour or our freedom; can we hesitate about the choice? Let the spirit of Britons determine.
In a former address, we asserted our rights, and stated the injuries. …The powers, assumed by your parliament, in which we are not represented, … rendered our property precarious. … denied that mode of trial, to which we have long been indebted for the safety of our persons, … annulling those charters, …whole colonies were condemned! their trade destroyed, their inhabitants impoverished. … new modes of trial were instituted … a despotic government was established in a neighbouring province [Canada], … [By] this black catalogue of unprovoked injuries … British ministry fully convince us, that their object is the reduction of these colonies to slavery and ruin.
… Let us combat the calumnies of our enemies; and let us warn you of the dangers that threaten you, in our destruction. … A British parliament, … robbed thousands of the food which they were accustomed to draw from that inexhaustible source … Another act of your legislature shuts our ports, and prohibits our trade … They publicly brand us [traitors and rebels] deprive us of the means of defence, … deliver us to the lawless ravages of a merciless soldiery. … The civil government is overturned, and a military despotism erected on its ruins. Without law, without right, powers are assumed unknown to the constitution. … a British fleet … are daily employed in ruining our commerce, seizing our ships, and depriving whole communities of their daily bread. … British troops sully your glory, by actions which the most inveterate enmity … While we revere the memory of our gallant and virtuous ancestors, we never will surrender those glorious privileges, for which they fought, bled and conquered. …
Our enemies charge us with sedition: in what does it consist? In our refusal to submit to unwarrantable acts of injustice and cruelty … We are accused of aiming at Independence; but how is this accusation supported? By the allegations of your ministers, not by our actions. … The advantages of our commerce were designed as a compensation for your protection. When you ceased to protect, for what were we to compensate?
… Our application to you remains unnoticed, and leaves us the melancholy apprehension of your wanting either the will, or the power, to assist us. …
Let not your enemies and ours persuade you, … The lives of Britons are still dear to us. They are the children of our parents, and an uninterrupted intercourse of mutual benefits had knit the bonds of friendship. …
When our late petition to the throne produced no other effect than fresh injuries … ; when your fleets and your armies, were prepared to wrest from us our property, to rob us of our liberties or our lives; when the hostile attempts of General Gage evinced his designs, we levied armies for our security and defence; … the Governor of Canada, gave us reason to apprehend danger from that quarter; … A cruel and savage enemy was to be let loose upon the defenseless inhabitants of our frontiers, we took such measures as prudence dictated, as necessity will justify. … The object we have ever had in view; a reconciliation with you on constitutional principles; and a restoration of that friendly intercourse, …
It has been said, that we refuse to submit to the restrictions on our commerce. … we again profess our submission to the several acts of trade and navigation, passed before the year 1763, … It is alledged that we contribute nothing to the common defence; … the advantages which Great-Britain receives from the monopoly of our trade, far exceed our proportion of the expence necessary for that purpose. …
It is a fundamental principle of the British constitution, that every man should have at least a representative share in the formation of those laws by which he is bound. …
A plan of accommodation (as it has been absurdly called) has been proposed by your ministers to our respective assemblies. … Can men deliberate with the bayonet at their breast? Can they treat with freedom while their towns are sacked; when daily instances of injustice, and oppression, disturb the slower operations of reason?
… We contend for the disposal of our property: we are told that our demand is unreasonable, that our Assemblies may indeed collect our money, but that they must … satisfy the desires of a Minister, ... To suppose that we would thus grasp the shadow, and give up the substance [of liberty], is adding insult to injuries. … The great bulwarks of our constitution we have desired to maintain by every temperate, by every peaceable means; but your Ministers … attempt to reduce us by the sword to a base and abject submission. … men trained to arms from their infancy, and animated by the love of liberty, will afford neither a cheap or easy conquest. … our struggle will be glorious, our success certain; since even in death we shall find that freedom which in life you forbid us to enjoy.
… What advantages are to attend our reduction? … the gratification of an ill-judged pride. … Soldiers who have sheathed their swords in the bowels of their American brethren, will not draw them with more reluctance against you. When too late you may lament the loss of that freedom, which we exhort you, while still in your power, to preserve.
… should that connection, which we most ardently wish to maintain be dissolved; … do [these ministers] not deliver you, weak and defenceless, to your natural enemies?
Since then your liberty, must be the price of your victories; your ruin of your defeat: what blind fatality can urge you to a pursuit destructive of all that Britons hold dear? … your wealth, your honour, your liberty are at stake.
… we would part with our property, endanger our lives, and sacrifice everything but liberty, to redeem you from ruin. … Let us entreat Heaven to avert our ruin, and the destruction that threatens our friends, brethren, and countrymen, on the other side of the Atlantic.
By order of the Congress,
JOHN HANCOCK, President
Philadelphia, July 8, 1775.
“The Twelve United Colonies, by their Delegates in Congress, to the Inhabitants of Great Britain” July 8, 1775
Friends, Countrymen, and Brethren!
… We intreat your serious attention to our second attempt to prevent the dissolution [of our ties]. … When reduced to the melancholy alternative of renouncing your favour or our freedom; can we hesitate about the choice? Let the spirit of Britons determine.
In a former address, we asserted our rights, and stated the injuries. …The powers, assumed by your parliament, in which we are not represented, … rendered our property precarious. … denied that mode of trial, to which we have long been indebted for the safety of our persons, … annulling those charters, …whole colonies were condemned! their trade destroyed, their inhabitants impoverished. … new modes of trial were instituted … a despotic government was established in a neighbouring province [Canada], … [By] this black catalogue of unprovoked injuries … British ministry fully convince us, that their object is the reduction of these colonies to slavery and ruin.
… Let us combat the calumnies of our enemies; and let us warn you of the dangers that threaten you, in our destruction. … A British parliament, … robbed thousands of the food which they were accustomed to draw from that inexhaustible source … Another act of your legislature shuts our ports, and prohibits our trade … They publicly brand us [traitors and rebels] deprive us of the means of defence, … deliver us to the lawless ravages of a merciless soldiery. … The civil government is overturned, and a military despotism erected on its ruins. Without law, without right, powers are assumed unknown to the constitution. … a British fleet … are daily employed in ruining our commerce, seizing our ships, and depriving whole communities of their daily bread. … British troops sully your glory, by actions which the most inveterate enmity … While we revere the memory of our gallant and virtuous ancestors, we never will surrender those glorious privileges, for which they fought, bled and conquered. …
Our enemies charge us with sedition: in what does it consist? In our refusal to submit to unwarrantable acts of injustice and cruelty … We are accused of aiming at Independence; but how is this accusation supported? By the allegations of your ministers, not by our actions. … The advantages of our commerce were designed as a compensation for your protection. When you ceased to protect, for what were we to compensate?
… Our application to you remains unnoticed, and leaves us the melancholy apprehension of your wanting either the will, or the power, to assist us. …
Let not your enemies and ours persuade you, … The lives of Britons are still dear to us. They are the children of our parents, and an uninterrupted intercourse of mutual benefits had knit the bonds of friendship. …
When our late petition to the throne produced no other effect than fresh injuries … ; when your fleets and your armies, were prepared to wrest from us our property, to rob us of our liberties or our lives; when the hostile attempts of General Gage evinced his designs, we levied armies for our security and defence; … the Governor of Canada, gave us reason to apprehend danger from that quarter; … A cruel and savage enemy was to be let loose upon the defenseless inhabitants of our frontiers, we took such measures as prudence dictated, as necessity will justify. … The object we have ever had in view; a reconciliation with you on constitutional principles; and a restoration of that friendly intercourse, …
It has been said, that we refuse to submit to the restrictions on our commerce. … we again profess our submission to the several acts of trade and navigation, passed before the year 1763, … It is alledged that we contribute nothing to the common defence; … the advantages which Great-Britain receives from the monopoly of our trade, far exceed our proportion of the expence necessary for that purpose. …
It is a fundamental principle of the British constitution, that every man should have at least a representative share in the formation of those laws by which he is bound. …
A plan of accommodation (as it has been absurdly called) has been proposed by your ministers to our respective assemblies. … Can men deliberate with the bayonet at their breast? Can they treat with freedom while their towns are sacked; when daily instances of injustice, and oppression, disturb the slower operations of reason?
… We contend for the disposal of our property: we are told that our demand is unreasonable, that our Assemblies may indeed collect our money, but that they must … satisfy the desires of a Minister, ... To suppose that we would thus grasp the shadow, and give up the substance [of liberty], is adding insult to injuries. … The great bulwarks of our constitution we have desired to maintain by every temperate, by every peaceable means; but your Ministers … attempt to reduce us by the sword to a base and abject submission. … men trained to arms from their infancy, and animated by the love of liberty, will afford neither a cheap or easy conquest. … our struggle will be glorious, our success certain; since even in death we shall find that freedom which in life you forbid us to enjoy.
… What advantages are to attend our reduction? … the gratification of an ill-judged pride. … Soldiers who have sheathed their swords in the bowels of their American brethren, will not draw them with more reluctance against you. When too late you may lament the loss of that freedom, which we exhort you, while still in your power, to preserve.
… should that connection, which we most ardently wish to maintain be dissolved; … do [these ministers] not deliver you, weak and defenceless, to your natural enemies?
Since then your liberty, must be the price of your victories; your ruin of your defeat: what blind fatality can urge you to a pursuit destructive of all that Britons hold dear? … your wealth, your honour, your liberty are at stake.
… we would part with our property, endanger our lives, and sacrifice everything but liberty, to redeem you from ruin. … Let us entreat Heaven to avert our ruin, and the destruction that threatens our friends, brethren, and countrymen, on the other side of the Atlantic.
By order of the Congress,
JOHN HANCOCK, President
Philadelphia, July 8, 1775.
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