Federal Works Agency. Work Projects Administration. Division of Information. "Boston Massacre." 5 March 1770. National Archives at College Park, Record ID 518262. U.S. National Archives and Records Administration.
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Crispus Attucks – An African American Man:
The First Casualty of the American Revolution
Crispus Attucks, an African American man, holds a significant place in American history as the first casualty of the American Revolution. His life and tragic death during the Boston Massacre serve as a testament to the struggle for freedom and equality that would shape the nation.
Born around 1723, Crispus Attucks was of African and Native American descent. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he was born into slavery in Framingham, Massachusetts. At some point, he escaped slavery and worked as a sailor. Attucks found himself in Boston, a bustling colonial city and a hotbed of revolutionary sentiment.
On the evening of March 5, 1770, tensions were running high in Boston. British soldiers were stationed in the city to enforce British rule, which had become increasingly oppressive to the American colonists. A crowd of angry colonists gathered near the Custom House, protesting against the presence of British soldiers and the taxes imposed upon them.
As the crowd grew more agitated, a group of British soldiers confronted them. Shouting and taunting escalated into violence, with the soldiers eventually firing into the crowd. Crispus Attucks, along with four others, was fatally shot and killed. This tragic event became known as the Boston Massacre.
Attucks' death was a pivotal moment in American history. His sacrifice became a rallying cry for the colonists, fueling their desire for independence from British rule. The Boston Massacre marked a turning point in public sentiment, as it exposed the brutality of British soldiers and sparked further resistance against their presence.
Although Attucks' role in the events leading up to the Boston Massacre remains unclear, his status as a free African American man made him a symbol of defiance and resistance. His death galvanized the American colonists, inspiring them to fight for their rights and ultimately leading to the American Revolution.
The legacy of Crispus Attucks lives on as a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals in the pursuit of freedom and equality. His bravery and determination continue to inspire generations, and his story serves as a powerful example of the fight against injustice.
Note: The Boston Massacre and its depiction may contain graphic violence. Please ensure appropriate classroom discussion and sensitivity when addressing this topic.
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