Bill > HP1185

This joint resolution recognizes the historical significance of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, which occurred on April 19, 1775, as a pivotal moment in American history. The resolution provides context about the tensions between the British government and its North American colonies, including the imposition of taxes without representation, the Boston Tea Party, and the British government's punitive "Intolerable Acts" that dissolved the Massachusetts provincial assembly and placed Boston under military occupation. It highlights how the Provincial Congress, led by John Hancock, defied the royally appointed Governor Thomas Gage and prepared for potential conflict by organizing a militia. The resolution describes the events of April 18-19, 1775, when British forces attempted to apprehend colonial leaders and seize arms, and local militia volunteers (known as Minutemen) engaged the British forces at Lexington Green and the North Bridge in Concord. Ultimately, the resolution honors the courage and sacrifice of those who fought against tyranny and defended the principles of representative self-government, recognizing these battles as the launch of the successful war for American independence.

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?paper=HP1185&snum=132