“I wish nothing but good; therefore, everyone who

does not agree with me is a traitor and a

scoundrel.” – King George III

Assignment for A/B Days (September 3 & 4)

STAMP ACT DEBATE
For our class debate, you will prepare one particular argument to
settle once and for all the issue:
“DOES PARLIAMENT HAVE THE RIGHT TO ISSUE THE STAMP ACT UPON THE
COLONIES?”
Everyone must read the preliminary research on the Stamp Act. You are strongly encouraged to
conduct additional research for this activity. Be sure to look for specific facts, details, and any
data you can use to prove your side: either Parliament has EVERY right to tax the colonies, or
that the Stamp Act is an unfair and unnecessary tax upon the colonists which destroys their
liberty as British subjects. Come armed with at least seven specific facts, details, and good
quotes from your primary source and be ready to debate!

Stamp Act - Gilder Lehrman

Parliament Debates the Stamp Act
Colonists Respond to the Stamp Act
A Poetical Dream. Concerning Stamped Papers.

*Note: Please do not be intimidated by the concept of a debate. The rules and regulations will
not be stringent – I will share these at the beginning of class, and we will spend the majority of
time speaking, listening, and understanding the roots and significance of the Stamp Act.