1774 - Between War and Peace

Between War and Peace

1774

The colonist hoped that the trade boycott would force a repeal of the Intolerable Acts. After all, boycotts had led to the repeal of the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts. This time, however, Parliament stood firm. It even increased restrictions on colonial trade and sent more British troops to the colonies.

By the end of 1774, some colonists were preparing to fight. In Massachusetts, John Hancock headed the Committee of Safety, which had the power to call out the militia and help them prepare to fight. The colonial troops continued to train.

Most colonial leaders believed that any fight with Britain would be short. They thought that a show of force would make Britain change its policies and their problems would be over. Very few expected war.

One who did expect war was Patrick Henry. Henry delivered a very famous speech in the Virginia House of Burgesses in March 1775. An excerpt is below:

“Gentleman may cry peace, peace – but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the North will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why should we idle here? I know not what course others may take. But for me, give me liberty or give me death.”

Patrick Henry, 1775