Question

In this quote, British officer Thomas Preston gives his testimony about what happened.

On my asking the soldiers why they fired without orders, they said they heard the word fire and supposed it came from me. This might be the case as many of the mob called out "fire, fire," but I assured the men that I gave no such order; that my words were, "don't fire, stop your firing." In short, it was scarcely possible for the soldiers to know who said fire, or don't fire, or stop your firing. Thomas Preston British Officer

Which of these statements are part of Preston's testimony?
a. He did not directly give the orders to fire.
b. He believed his men knew who asked them to fire.
c. He believed that his men were confused by the crowd.
d. He ordered his men to shoot to protect themselves.

Answer 1

Thomas Preston testified that he did not directly give the orders to fire and that he believed his men were confused by the crowd during the chaotic event. The correct answer is option a. and c.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to British officer Thomas Preston's testimony, the statements that are part of his testimony are:

• He did not directly give the orders to fire.
• He believed his men were confused by the crowd, with several individuals shouting "fire" which could have led to the misunderstanding among the soldiers as to who was giving commands.

He did not believe his men knew who asked them to fire because the scene was chaotic, with many people shouting. Additionally, he specifically stated that he did not issue an order to shoot to protect themselves; therefore, the last option is incorrect.