William Jackson, an Importer; at the Brazen Head
Image 1 of 1
To order an image, navigate to the full
display and click "request this image"
on the blue toolbar.
Choose an alternate description of this item written for these projects:
- Object of the Month
- Main description
[ This description is from the project: Coming of the American Revolution ]
Boycott the Brazen Head!Despite their earlier failure to garner support for a large-scale non-importation movement, Boston merchants try again in August 1768. They vow not to import any goods from Britain after 1 January 1769. Once again, Bostonians seek out supporters in New York and Philadelphia. This time, however, Boston merchants stand firm and make it clear that they will boycott British goods whether merchants in these ports support them or not (they also threaten to suspend trade with non-participating towns). In late August, New York merchants agree to stop importing British goods after 1 November. Philadelphia merchants reluctantly join the movement in March 1769. Boston patriots, meanwhile, launch a concerted effort to stamp out remaining importers. Violators' names are printed on handbills and in newspapers for all of Boston to see.
Questions to Consider1. What punishment will befall those consumers who patronize William Jackson's shop?
2. Identify the words on this broadside that appear in CAPITAL letters. Why do you think these words are capitalized?
3. Is this broadside an effective piece of propaganda? Would it keep you from shopping at William Jackson's store? Why or why not?
Further Exploration4. Locate the site of Jackson's shop, the Brazen Head, on an eighteenth-century map of Boston
5. What does the name of Jackson's shop signify? Make a sign for his shop.