Edenton Tea Party

Edenton Tea Party

The Edenton Tea Party was a political protest that took place on October 25, 1774, in Edenton, North Carolina, during the early stages of the American Revolution. It was one of the first organized women's political actions in the American colonies.

Background

The Edenton Tea Party was a response to the Tea Act of 1773, which granted a monopoly on the importation of tea to the British East India Company. This act was seen as a violation of the colonists' rights and sparked widespread opposition throughout the American colonies.

The Protest

On October 25, 1774, fifty-one women in Edenton, led by Penelope Barker, gathered at the home of Elizabeth King to discuss the political situation and plan a protest. They signed a document, known as the "Edenton Tea Party Resolutions," in which they pledged to boycott British tea and other imported goods until the Tea Act was repealed.

The women sent their resolutions to newspapers in North Carolina and other colonies, gaining attention and support for their cause. The protest was seen as a powerful symbol of resistance and unity among the colonists.

Legacy

The Edenton Tea Party is often overlooked in American history, but it played a significant role in the early stages of the American Revolution. It demonstrated that women were actively involved in political activism and willing to take a stand against British oppression.

The protest also helped to galvanize support for the colonial cause and contributed to the growing sentiment of independence from Britain. It served as an inspiration for future women's political movements and highlighted the important role that women played in shaping American history.

See Also

• American Revolution
• Tea Act
• Women in the American Revolution

External Links

• NCpedia - Edenton Tea Party
• History.com - Edenton Tea Party