Database: Boston leads the struggle

From the Boston Massacre of 1770 to the Boston Tea party and the Siege of 1775, Boston played a major role during the American Revolution. This should not be a surprise. With a deep-sea harbor and naturally sheltered terrain, Boston was a major economic center of the American Colonies. This was based on trade and fishing activities under the leadership of a rich class of ship-owners and merchants. Starting during the 1760's, restrictions on trade and enhanced taxation imposed by the British Crown directly affected the local economy and helped precipitate the Revolution.