Question

My Lords,

The colonists have been insulting His Majesty, saying that the Stamp Act was unconstitutional and oppressive. It is apparent to many people here that the Presbyterians are at the head of these riots. They are opposed to Kings and some cry out—‘No King but King Jesus.’ The leaders fill every newspaper with inflammatory pieces, so that the minds of the common people are kept in a continual ferment. . . . No one dares write anything that would calm the people down. Doing so would put the writer’s life and fortune in danger. I am convinced the Presbyterians intend nothing less than the throwing off their allegiance and obedience to his Majesty, and forming a Republican Empire, in America, and being Lords and Masters themselves.I am daily threatened by verbal messages and anonymous letters, with a mob of several thousand people, from the Jerseys, New York, and New England. I conclude with praying, that the Almighty may secure the allegiance of America to the Crown of Britain, by destroying the seeds of rebellion, and by punishing the ringleaders of these riots.
Source: John Hughes, written in Philadelphia, January 13, 1766.
Vocabulary: Presbyterians: a religion that gained popularity during the Great Awakening inflammatory: causing angry or violent feelings to ferment: agitation or excitement, typically leading to violence allegiance: loyalty

Questions:Who wrote this and what is his job?

a) John Hughes, a colonist
b) John Hughes, a British official
c) George Washington, a military leader
d) Thomas Jefferson, a lawyer

Answer 1

The letter was written by John Hughes, who based on the context of his concerns and loyalties was quite likely a British official during the colonial period of American history.

Step-by-step explanation:

The letter was written by John Hughes, and based on the content of the letter, which suggests he is a supporter of British rule and is concerned about the Presbyterian-led opposition to the monarchy, it is reasonable to deduce that John Hughes was a British official.

He expresses dismay at the actions and sentiments against the British Crown by the colonists, who are incensed by what they perceive as unconstitutional acts such as the Stamp Act. Hughes' appeal is for the restoration and preservation of allegiance to Britain, indicating his official role in maintaining the colonial governance under British authority. 4

This aligns with the general sentiment among British officials who saw the colonists' response to the Stamp Act as a threat to British imperial control and the economic interests tied to the colonies.