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This is the most magnificent movement of all! There is a dignity, a majesty, a sublimity, in this last effort of the patriots that I greatly admire. The people should never rise without doing something to be remembered - something notable and striking. This destruction of the tea is so bold, so daring, so firm, intrepid and inflexible, and it must have so important consequences, and so lasting, that I can't but consider it as an epocha in history!

John Adams#61

PoliticsHistoryRevolutionCourageActivismPatriotism

About this quote

What does it mean?
The Boston Tea Party was a bold, decisive act of patriotism that marked a turning point in history.
In plain terms
The tea destruction was a daring, historic act of patriotism.
What can you take from it?
Bold collective actions can reshape history.

Where it applies

  • social movements
  • political protest

Putting it to work

  • organize peaceful demonstrations
  • document events

Questions to consider

  • What makes an act historic?
  • When is boldness justified?

Another view

Not all bold acts succeed; many fail or cause backlash.

More from John Adams

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  2. Virtue is not always amiable.

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  3. No man is entirely free from weakness and imperfection in this life. Men of the most exalted genius and active minds are generally most perfect slaves to the l…

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