September 26, 2025

What Led Regular People To Revolution?

46 minutes

How much do you know about Samuel Adams and John Hancock? What about Thomas Hutchinson and James Otis Jr? You've probably heard Samuel Adams name before, but do you know why he is considered the father of the American Revolution? John Hancock's signature stands out on the Declaration of Independence, do you know why? Thomas Hutchinson was the Lt. Governor of Massachusetts, a loyalist, how does he fit into this story?

On this episode of Founded we’re exploring how these people went from ordinary British subjects to the main characters in a story that would lead to an entire new nation being founded. They weren't born radicals, they became radicalized in their determination for liberty. Even more importantly we are exploring how they were connected in early 1765. Thomas Hutchinson wasn't a super villain that just showed up one day, he'd been there the whole time. Hutchinson knew the patriot leaders before they knew they had something so big to lead, he worked with them and against them. In early 1765 The Sugar Act had already passed and soon The Stamp Act would too; they had no idea that everything was about to change.

Key Players:

Samuel Adams- Harvard grad, failure in business, started a whole revolution

James Otis Jr- Prominent lawyer in Boston, whig

Thomas Hutchinson- Held way too many positions in government, Lt Governor of Massachusetts Bay, loyal to the crown

John Hancock- Super wealthy merchant, gets a position in politics to stay out of politics

We want to hear from you! What did you find interesting? What do you want to find out next? Email us: [email protected]

Sources

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