Question

John Adams almost became known as a traitor to the Patriot cause for this action. What did he do?

a) Supported the Boston Tea Party
b) Advocated for British taxation
c) Defended the British soldiers after the Boston Massacre
d) Signed the Declaration of Independence

Answer 1

John Adams risked being viewed as a traitor by defending the British soldiers after the Boston Massacre, emphasizing the right to fair trial and justice, which aligned with the emerging American values.

Step-by-step explanation:

John Adams almost became known as a traitor to the Patriot cause when he defended the British soldiers after the Boston Massacre. This action was seen as controversial because many Patriots viewed the soldiers as direct oppressors and enemies of the American cause for liberty. Despite the strong public sentiment against the soldiers, Adams believed in the right to a fair trial and legal representation, which reflects his principles as a lawyer and a proponent of justice. His defense of the soldiers led to most of them being acquitted, which could have been seen as a betrayal by those who wanted the soldiers to be convicted. However, his commitment to due process showcased the very ideals that the new nation would come to value.