1. John Adams DVD
Scene 1: Boston Massacre (1770) – (2:20 – 8:50 / 12:45 – 14:45) 9 min
Describe how the Boston Massacre is portrayed / what do you see happen?
Scene 2: Red Coats on Trial - (19-25:13, 26:34-31:10, 34:03-38:17, 39:40-42:20) 18 min
What arguments does John Adams use to defend the Red Coats?
Scene 3: Tarred & Feathered / The Intolerable Acts (1774) – (48:36-52:05, 54:14-58:36) – 8min
Describe why & how the colonists protest & their punishment
Scene 4: 2nd Continental Congress: Internal debate (26:42-32:00, 57:24-59:27) – 8 min
Three major issues discussed:
Formation of a Continental Army.
Appointment of George Washington to lead the Army.
Resolution to declare independence from Great Britain.
Declaration of Independence: John Adams disqualifies himself from writing it on the grounds that he is too busy, but also that he is obnoxious, not that well liked, and not as good of a writer as Thomas Jefferson. Adams argues that T.J. should write it because he’s from the most powerful colony (Virginia) and because he’s a great writer.
Scene 5: 2nd Continental Congress: Declaring Independence (1:07 – 1:19, 1:22 – 1:28) – 18 min
John Dickinson (PA) argues AGAINST a resolution for Independence:
Too risky / Not prepared / Trading the rule of Britain for whoever must help them (France)
John Adams (MA) argues FOR a resolution for Independence:
Risky but worthwhile / Formation of a republic / To call that land their country / To be free
Colonies holding out AGAINST Independence:
Delaware, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and New York
Outcome of the final vote for independence:
12 votes FOR / 0 votes AGAINST / 1 colony ABSTAINED (New York)