APK: Activation of Prior Knowledge
Write at least 2-3 sentences about a time…
When you were influenced, inspired, motivated or angered by something someone wrote.
What effect did propaganda have on colonists during the time of great struggle in the American colonies?

Michael Quinones, NBCT www.socialstudiesguy.com
How early writers inflamed the masses


Speech intended to sway opinion.

Often [if not always] inflammatory, sarcastic or exaggerated.

Sometimes “scary.”


Thomas Paine published a
pamphlet titled Common
Sense in January of
1776.

Published anonymously.

Advocated a separation by America from England.


To Paine it was “common sense” to seek independence.

England was exploiting the riches and resources of
America.

“We no longer need her protection.”


Peter Zenger, a newspaper editor, printed a series of articles.

Critical of New York’s royal governor.

Accused of seditious libel.

Arrested and tried.

Found not guilty.


Sam Adams, cousin of John
Adams, was active in propaganda.

He was the leader of a group of Boston
“troublemakers” named the
Sons of Liberty

Publication of many pamphlets and newspapers spread word.


A member of Virginia’s House of
Burgesses.

Advocated military attack on
British forces in March of 1775 in the Virginia Resolves .
 “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery?
Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death !”

Assignment:
Creating Colonial Propaganda
• Colonial Propaganda Poster
• Congratulations, you have been chosen by fellow colonists to create a propaganda poster to help recruit support for or against colonial rebellion in your colony. Your job is to encourage your fellow colonists to support your argument and gain a better understanding of your colony’s views and way of life.
• In your poster you need to include the following:
• Name of colony or group you represent
• Argument for or against rebellion that is backed historically
• Five (5) valid reasons to support your side
• 1-3 illustrations
• Make poster look real for the time period
• In your propaganda poster you need to pick a date from the Seven Years’ War to [1763] the
Declaration of Independence [1776] to argue and encourage support for your cause.
Remember to be creative, accurate and have fun!
• Due Date:
•Source: http://www.statelib.lib.in.us/www/ihb/re sources/2libertybell.gif