what was the parliament's reaction to the Boston Tea Party of 1773 ?
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The Parliament's reaction to the Boston Tea Party of 1773 was predominantly driven by anger and a desire to assert control over the American colonies. To understand the Parliament's reaction, we can follow these steps:
1. Research: Start by researching primary and secondary sources to gather information on the topic. Look for historical accounts, letters, newspaper articles, and other relevant documents that can provide insight into the Parliament's response.
2. Analyze: Once you have gathered relevant sources, analyze the information to understand the Parliament's perspective. Consider the political climate of the time, the relationship between Britain and its American colonies, and any previous events that may have influenced the reaction.
3. Understanding the Tea Act: To comprehend the Parliament's response, it is essential to understand the Tea Act of 1773. The Tea Act was passed to assist the financially struggling British East India Company, allowing them to sell tea directly to the colonies, bypassing colonial merchants. This created resentment among American tea merchants and ultimately led to the Boston Tea Party.
4. Coercive Acts: As a response to the Boston Tea Party, the British Parliament passed a series of punitive measures known as the Coercive Acts or the Intolerable Acts in 1774. These acts aimed to punish the colonists and reaffirm British authority in America. The Coercive Acts included the Boston Port Act, which closed the Boston harbor, greatly impacting trade. Additionally, the acts curtailed self-governance in Massachusetts, imposed stricter royal control, and authorized the quartering of British troops.
5. Consider Multiple Perspectives: While the primary focus is on the Parliament's reaction, it's important to consider other perspectives as well. Look into how American colonists, both Patriots and Loyalists, and other European powers viewed the Boston Tea Party and its aftermath. This broader context will provide a comprehensive understanding of the event.
By following these steps, you will be able to build a well-rounded understanding of the Parliament's reaction to the Boston Tea Party and its historical significance.