1. The Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts

2. The Stamp Act of 1765  The Stamp Act increased tension between Britain and the colonies.  This law required all documents to carry an official stamp showing that a tax had been paid.  Diplomas, newspapers, contracts, and wills had to carry a stamp.

3. Colonists protest!!!!  Colonial leaders vigorously protested.  They were being taxed without their consent by a Parliament in which they had no voice.  If Britain could pass the Stamp Act, what other taxes might it pass in the future?

4. The Colonies take action CColonial assemblies and newspapers took up the cry—“No taxation without representation!” IIn October 1765, nine colonies sent delegates to the Stamp Act Congress in New York City. TThis was the first time the colonies met to consider acting together in protest. TThe petition declared that the right to tax the colonies belonged to the colonial assemblies, not to Parliament. CColonial merchants organized a boycott or a refusal to buy British goods.

5. More Taxes for the colonists? AAfter a long debate over the colonies, with the help of Charles Townshend, the Parliament passes the Townshend Acts. TThe act placed taxes on goods like glass, paper, paint, lead, and tea. TThe taxes were low but colonists objected because of taxation without representation.

6. New Laws made from the Townshend Acts….  Using legal documents, known as writs of assistance, customs officials could inspect a ships cargo without a reason.  The colonists say that this violates their rights as a British citizen.

7. Colonist Reaction  Nonimportation agreements-promise to stop importing goods taxed by Townshend Acts  Daughters of Liberty Women organize to get American made products  Colonist boycotts hurt British businesses Townshend Acts is repealed in 1770  Keep the tax on Tea