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Thomas Jefferson: Origins and Objectives of the Committees of Correspondence
An actor portraying Thomas Jefferson examines of the origins of the Committees of Correspondence and relates grievances that we will see again in the 1776 Declaration of Independence.
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'Let my people go!' Reflections by Phillis Wheatley (1772) and a Petition for Manumission from Felix (1773)
Actors portray two enslaved people in the early 1770s—Phillis Wheatley and a man named Felix—who imagine independence for people of color.
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'The Fatal 5th of March 1770, Can Never be Forgotten!' — Dr. Joseph Warren
On the second annual commemoration of the Boston Massacre, Dr. Joseph Warren speaks to the citizens of Boston, pointing out the injustices of British parliamentary laws.
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July 4th at the National Archives!
Celebrate Independence Day with the National Archives!
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The Road to the Declaration: The Acts of Rebellion - The Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts
John Dickenson and Patrick Henry express their views on England’s oppressive policies on the colonies, and why the colonies should unite in defense of their rights.
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The Road to the Declaration: Raising Revenue - The Early Acts of Parliament with John and Abigail Adams
Abigail and John Adams reflect on how British revenue acts affected daily life in the American colonies.
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The Road to the Declaration: The French and Indian War - George Washington
An actor portraying young George Washington will talk about his time as a young officer in the British Army.
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The Road to the Declaration: The Boston Massacre Trial - Thomas Gage and John Adams
John Adams explains his decision to perform the unpopular task of defending the British soldiers after the Boston Massacre, and Thomas Gage expresses the loyalist point of view.
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The Road to the Declaration: Before the Boston Massacre - Voices of Boston
Actors portraying Phillis Wheatly, Crispus Attucks, and Mrs. Benjamin Edes discuss conditions in Boston and New York leading up the “Boston Massacre” in March 1770.
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The Declaration of Independence and Diversity: Then and Now
In a virtual live discussion, a panel of scholars will examine how the ideals and words of the Declaration relate to issues of race, gender, and diversity today.