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Boston Massacre 1770 — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This rigorous U.S. history reading passage examines the Boston Massacre of 1770, analyzing the event through both factual evidence and the lens of propaganda. Students will explore multiple perspectives, including those of British soldiers and colonial patriots, and learn how propaganda shaped public opinion in the lead-up to the American Revolution. Key academic vocabulary is integrated and explained within context. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, providing a strong foundation in historical reasoning, cause and effect, and the evaluation of primary sources. Activities include a reading comprehension quiz, writing prompts, a T-Chart graphic organizer, and a timeline. A read aloud audio option and full Spanish translation are included, making the content accessible for diverse learners. This resource is ideal for building critical literacy and historical thinking skills.

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The massacre perpetrated in King Street Boston on March 5th 1770, ... — The massacre perpetrated in King Street Boston on March 5th 1770.
Source: Library of Congress

The Boston Massacre occurred on March 5, 1770, when a violent confrontation erupted between British soldiers and colonists in Boston, Massachusetts. This event was the result of rising tension caused by British laws and taxes. British troops had been stationed in Boston to enforce unpopular policies and maintain order, but their presence only increased resentment among the colonists.

The conflict began when a group of colonists started to protest outside the Customs House, angered by the presence of armed soldiers in their city. The colonists shouted insults, threw snowballs, and even small objects at the soldiers. As the crowd grew larger and louder, the situation quickly escalated. The British soldiers, feeling threatened and confused, fired their muskets into the crowd without a clear order.

As a result, five colonists were killed and several others were wounded. Among those who died was Crispus Attucks, a man of African and Native American descent, who is often remembered as the first casualty of the American Revolution. The news of the killings spread rapidly throughout the colonies, and colonial leaders used the incident as powerful evidence of British oppression.

Both sides told different accounts of what happened that night. The British soldiers claimed they acted in self-defense, while colonists argued it was an unprovoked attack. The event was widely publicized in newspapers and through engravings like Paul Revere’s famous depiction of the massacre, which helped shape public opinion.

The Boston Massacre became a crucial turning point in colonial resistance. It united many colonists in opposition to British rule and inspired further resistance such as boycotts and the formation of committees of correspondence. The trial of the British soldiers, in which John Adams served as their lawyer, demonstrated the colonists’ commitment to justice and fair trials, even in moments of deep anger.

The massacre’s legacy influenced the course of the American Revolution. It highlighted the dangers of military occupation in civilian areas and showed how violence could push people to demand change. The event also encouraged colonists to question the legitimacy of British authority over their lives.

In conclusion, the Boston Massacre was more than just a tragic event; it was a catalyst that transformed colonial attitudes. By analyzing the causes and consequences, historians see how the massacre helped forge a stronger movement for American independence.

Interesting Fact: Just weeks after the Boston Massacre, the British government repealed most of the Townshend Acts, but kept the tax on tea, which would later spark the Boston Tea Party.

When did the Boston Massacre occur?

March 5, 1770July 4, 1776May 10, 1773December 16, 1773

Who was Crispus Attucks?

First casualty of the massacreBritish generalColonial governorTea merchant

How many colonists were killed?

ThreeFiveSevenTen

Why did colonists protest at the Customs House?

Unfair British lawsTea shortageElection resultsHarsh winter weather

What effect did the Boston Massacre have?

United colonists against BritainEnded all protestsStarted the Civil WarLed to new British taxes

What was John Adams' role after the massacre?

Defended British soldiersLed protestsWrote the DeclarationWas a judge