Question

select two answer choices total; one to answer part (1) and one to answer part (2) of this question. (part 1) how would pro - independence americans likely interpret the outcome of the boston massacre trials? (part 2) which fact would be most critical to their interpretation?
a. (1) reasonable frustration with parliament was justified, but radical dissidents were to blame for escalating protest into violence.
b. (1) parliament deserved blame for worsening tensions and the shooting, regardless of whether the soldiers on trial acted in reasonable self - defense.
c. (2) the soldiers were in boston to enforce the collection of taxes that colonists believed parliament had been imposed improperly.
d. (2) the soldiers were badly outnumbered and opened fire after being assaulted.
e. (2) colonial defense during the recent war accounted for most of britains debt.

Explanation:

Pro - independence Americans were against British rule. For Part (1), they would blame Parliament as they saw British actions (like taxation without proper colonial consent) as the root cause. For Part (2), the fact that soldiers were in Boston to enforce improper taxes (which was a major grievance for colonists) is critical.

Answer:

b. (1) Parliament deserved blame for worsening tensions and the shooting, regardless of whether the soldiers on trial acted in reasonable self - defense.
c. (2) The soldiers were in Boston to enforce the collection of taxes that colonists believed Parliament had been imposed improperly.