A Tradition of Resistance: The Puritan Prequel to the American Revolution

In 1767, in one of his first contributions to the American Revolution, John Adams wrote two letters published in the Boston Gazette attacking the policies of Massachusetts governor Francis Bernard. An avid student of Massachusetts history, Adams signed his letters “John Winthrop.”

Here and elsewhere Adams acknowledged the importance of the puritan settlers of New England – who, from the outset, resisted royal attempts to curb self-government and established a clear precedent of resistance to arbitrary government. He also reflected in later years that the growth and defense of New England rested on the relatively democratic structures of “towns, militia, schools, and churches” established by Winthrop’s generation.

As we begin to commemorate the events leading to American independence, we need to remember the roots of that drive for independence and self-governance more a century earlier. The American Revolution did not come from nowhere, but rested on a history that connects puritans and patriots.

In this important talk, award-winning historian Francis Bremer will explore the early history of resistance to royal interference, beginning with the military preparations to defend Massachusetts against King Charles’ attempt to seize the colony charter in the 1630s.

He will examine the many ways in which the colonists supported the English puritan cause during the English civil wars of the 1640s. He will discuss 18th century patriots’ awareness of that legacy, and conclude with Nathaniel Hawthorne’s linkage of the puritans and revolutionaries in the person of a Grey Champion – who would always come forth when freedom was threatened.

PLEASE NOTE As always, we’ll post the recording of this presentation on our YouTube channel and website historicbostons.org

This presentation represents the view of the speaker and not necessarily that of the Partnership of Historic Bostons.

Free.