This Day In Founders History – 11 October

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This Day In Founders History – 11 October

On this day in 1774, the Continental Congress sent a letter to British General Thomas Gage. Gage had been appointed the military Royal governor of Massachusetts earlier that year. He quickly proceeded to implement various acts such as the Boston Port Act and attempted to bribe various political leaders. Gage also confiscated military supplies including gunpowder, which outraged local militiamen who organized and demonstrated their force. The letter from the Continental Congress read, in part:

“Sir, The Inhabitants of the town of Boston have informed us…that the fortifications erecting within that town, the frequent invasions of private property, and the repeated insults they receive from the soldiery, have given them great reason to suspect a plan is formed very destructive to them, and tending to overthrow the liberties of America. Your excellency cannot be a stranger to the sentiments of America, with respect to the acts of parliament, under the execution of which, those unhappy people are oppressed…and the determined resolution of the colonies, for the preservation of their common rights, to unite in their opposition to those acts. — In consequence of these sentiments, they have appointed us the guardians of their rights and liberties, and we are under the deepest concern, that whilst we are pursuing every dutiful and peaceable measure to procure a cordial and effectual reconciliation between Great Britain and the colonies…In order therefore to quiet the minds…we hope, Sir, you will discontinue the fortifications in and about Boston, prevent any further invasion of private property, restrain the irregularities of the soldiers, and give orders that the communication between the town and country may be open, unmolested and free.” The letter was signed by President of the Continental Congress, Peyton Randolph, on behalf of the general Congress.

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