Advanced Placement US History (AP US History) Practice Exam

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What led to widespread protests against the British government leading to the Boston Massacre?

  1. Imposition of the Stamp Act

  2. Violent suppression of dissent

  3. Opposition to Townshend Acts

  4. Taxation without representation

The correct answer is: Opposition to Townshend Acts

The widespread protests against the British government that culminated in the Boston Massacre can be largely attributed to the strong opposition to the Townshend Acts. These Acts, enacted in 1767, imposed duties on imported goods such as glass, lead, paints, paper, and tea, which fueled the already growing resentment among the colonists. The funds raised were used to pay colonial governors and judges, effectively removing financial control from the colonial assemblies and igniting fears of losing self-governance. This situation amplified the colonists' belief that they were being taxed without proper representation in Parliament, leading to organized boycotts of British goods and heightened tensions in cities like Boston. Protests, both peaceful and violent, emerged as colonists rallied against what they viewed as oppressive measures by the British government. The situation further escalated when British troops were stationed in Boston to maintain order, creating a charged atmosphere that ultimately led to the violence of the Boston Massacre in 1770. While the imposition of the Stamp Act played a significant role in earlier protests, its repeal in 1766 did not alleviate dissatisfaction with British governance. The violent suppression of dissent did occur, but it was primarily a reaction to the growing unrest rather than a leading cause.