Final answer:
White men in the colonies influenced public life but did not form the 'American party' to settle tax disputes with Britain; instead, they participated in protests and other forms of civic engagement.
Step-by-step explanation:
While many white men in the colonies lacked the right to vote, they influenced public life in several ways but did not form the American party to settle tax disputes with Britain. This option is incorrect because the correct name of the group that emerged during the period of tension over British taxes was the American Patriots. They organized protests like the Boston Tea Party, not an American party per se. The other options listed, such as protesting the kidnapping of poor men for maritime service, serving on juries, and protesting in the streets against what they considered oppressive authority, were indeed ways that white men who lacked the right to vote could still influence public life.
During the eighteenth century, colonial assemblies expanded their powers and influence, which is confirmed by historical records and multiple exercise questions from the provided text. However, they were neither appointed by the king nor included women in their ranks. Furthermore, they did not lose their power to appropriate taxes during this period.
The answer to the student's question is option b. The 'American party' is not historically accurate in the context of white men's influence in the colonies, therefore it is the exception among the choices provided.