The Townshend Acts marked a new radical phase in the crisis that eventually destroyed Britain’s American empire. When Parliament enacted the law in 1767, it seemed as though the imperial stresses at the end of the Seven Year’s War could be contained. Just over a year later, occupied Boston was the toast of radical patriots throughout George III’s dominions, and observers began to wonder whether Britain’s days as an imperial power were numbered. University of New Hampshire Professor of History Eliga Gould will tell the fascinating story of this transformation – as it appeared to Bostonians and from the standpoint of people on the far shores of the Atlantic.

Free and open to the public. ASL interpretation is available with advance notice; assisted listening devices are available at all events. OSMH is wheelchair accessible.