Exploring American Histories: Printed Page 150

Document 5.5

The Edenton Proclamation, 1774

When colonial leaders called for a boycott of tea following the 1773 Tea Act, women throughout the colonies joined in the campaign. In Edenton, North Carolina, a group of women published a proclamation stating their allegiance to the cause of liberty by refusing to serve or drink British tea. Their public statement received much attention in both the American and the British press. The following political cartoon, which satirizes the Edenton women who signed the public declaration, appeared in several London newspapers.

Explore

image
Library of Congress

  • Question

    What is the significance of the female slave holding the inkstand?

  • Question

    How are the women portrayed in this cartoon?

  • Question

    What is the presence of the infant and dog on the floor meant to suggest about the character of female petitioners?

Put It in Context

Question

How does the cartoon use contemporary understandings of women’s role in society to undermine their actions?