Join
or Die, part 1 of the HBO's John Adams series,
re-emphasized many of the unit 2 objectives from our notes and homework. The
unrest and rebellion in the colonies was portrayed through the Boston Massacre,
the response to the Tea Act, the Intolerable Acts, and the formation of the
First Continental Congress. As you witnessed, John Adams was a
well-respected public figure that joined the patriot cause by the end of the
episode. As your extra credit option, respond to ONE of the
following topics. Your response should TYPED in a well-developed paragraph and
should be at least 8-10 sentences in length. Due- Friday, Sept. 26th
Value- 10 points. Your point value will
be determined through fulfilling the requirements and the written content.
Choose one of the following questions.
1. Describe the Boston Massacre trial. Summarize key arguments of the prosecution (arguments that the British soldiers willfully fired upon the crowd) and defense (John Adams defending the soldiers). How did John Adams plan his defense? What were some of his key points or questions? Describe the scene in the courtroom and any significant witnesses. Be specific in your descriptions. Discuss the significance of the jury’s verdict and the impact it had on John Adams’ professional career.
2. Explain how John Adams’ Loyalist stance changed from the beginning of the episode to the end. Use specific examples, like why he decided to defend the British soldiers, his thoughts about the Sons of Liberty, his reaction to restricted individual freedoms, his turning point when he went against the crown of England, and his decision to attend the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Be sure to mention specific examples or scenes from the episode.
