April 16, 1768

Virginia Assembly Protests Townshend Acts

Using language reminiscent of its stand against the Stamp Act, the Virginia House of Burgesses adopts memorials claiming that Parliament has the authority to legislate for the empire and regulate trade but cannot tax colonials without their consent. The House also orders its Speaker, Peyton Randolph, to inform the other colonies of Virginia's stand and to call for united opposition "to every measure which may affect the Rights and Liberties of the British Colonies in America." Upon reading them, Lord Hillsborough informs George III that Virginia's language is "more alarming" than Massachusetts’ and asks permission to ready warships and marines to send to the colony.