Effects of the Boston Massacre

Worksheet Description

This worksheet outlines the incident at King Street where American colonists were shot by British soldiers and the subsequent actions taken by the governing bodies and key individuals, such as Governor Thomas Hutchinson and John Adams. The narrative elaborates on the trial of the British soldiers involved, explaining how John Adams, a staunch patriot, defended them, leading to the acquittal of six soldiers and the conviction of two. The concluding segment underscores the lasting impact of the Boston Massacre on the American colonial perspective, noting its role in shaping their view of British rule.

To work through this worksheet, students should start by thoroughly reading the provided text, ensuring a clear understanding of the events and their significance. They need to grasp the motives and actions of key players like John Adams and the overarching consequences of the Boston Massacre on the colonial psyche. With this foundation, students should contemplate the verdict of the trial, weighing the described circumstances against their own values and beliefs. Lastly, they are prompted to write down whether they agree with the trial’s outcome and provide justifications for their stance.

This worksheet aims to foster a multifaceted understanding of the Boston Massacre’s ramifications. By walking students through the event’s fallout and subsequent trial, it challenges them to grapple with complex moral and legal questions. Moreover, the worksheet encourages students to think critically about the intersection of law, ethics, and public sentiment in historical contexts. Ultimately, the objective is to cultivate nuanced historical insight and to promote analytical thinking, as students reflect on the justice and consequences of historical decisions.