Page 68 - JM Book 9/2020
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friend from Massachusetts.” Sam and John smiled at Jefferson’s reference to Sam’s reputation.
Sam Adams had a well-deserved reputation for being one of the leaders of the Boston Tea Party on December 16, 1773, and one of the early organizers of the Sons of Liberty. Since Parliament imposed the Stamp Act on the colonies in 1765, he had been an active spokesman and leader in what developed into the independence movement.
Patriots dumped tea overboard in protest at the Boston Tea Party - December 16, 1773
“Thomas, John was telling me about the declaration you have written,” said Sam. “He tells me that you have written an eloquent statement that clearly explains our right to be a free people.”
“I only wrote what has been in our hearts and minds for some time now, but I thank you for your kind words.”
After the tavern maid served their drinks and took their orders, Jefferson posed the question that had brought them together. “What are our chances of approving the Virginia Resolution?”
Sam finished his tea before answering. “The outlook is much better now than when it was first introduced. There will still be some opposition from those, like John Dickinson, who think we are acting too hastily. But I am confident we will be successful in the end. I believe Congress will approve the
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