John Adams, a mere twenty-year-old school teacher at the time, made a profound prediction about the future of America. At that time, America was merely a minor outpost of the vast empire ruled by England. However, Adams foresaw a shift in power, stating, "Mighty states and kingdoms change. A few people came over into this new world for conscience' sake; this seemingly insignificant event may transfer the great seat of empire to America."
Adams predicted that the population of America would surpass that of England within a century. He also believed that the combined might of Europe would not be able to conquer America. By the end of the century he referred to, the population of the United States had indeed more than doubled that of England, and not long after, it became the most powerful nation on earth.
In 1765, while Adams was residing in Braintree, the English Parliament passed the "Stamp Act." This act mandated that anyone using a sheet of paper as a legal document should purchase a stamp to affix to the paper, with the proceeds going to the British government. This was essentially a tax that Americans had to pay without receiving any benefits in return, which was one of the major grievances that sparked the American Revolution. The colonies across America vehemently protested against the Stamp Act.
In Massachusetts, John Adams was chosen to argue against the Stamp Act before the British Governor in Boston. With courage and conviction, Adams boldly declared to the Governor and his Council that the Stamp Act was null and void, as Parliament had no authority to enact such a law. This act of defiance required immense bravery, a trait for which Adams was well-known. In 1768, when Adams began his professional career in Boston, the city was filled with agitated residents, most of whom harbored resentment towards anything British.
John Adams was not just a visionary, but also a brave leader who stood up against unjust laws. His prophecy about America's rise to power and his stand against the Stamp Act are testaments to his foresight and courage. His contributions to the American Revolution and his role in shaping the future of America are well-documented in history.
Spiders In The Garden
Watching for their prey in the centre of a radiating geometrical snare, we often find the garden spiders. The beauty of their vertical orb-webs and the large size of these strikingly marked creatures always attract our attention during summer strolls.
Jack & Jill The Vulture Twins
Probably this story of Jack and Jill, the Vulture Twins, would never have been written, if Betsy, Farmer Parsons' old brindle cow, had not refused to come up from the woods one night. But she wouldn't come, so Farmer Parsons had to go down after her.
At Home With Mr. Burroughs
Youth still peered out at me in spite of his crowning thatch of silvery hair when I first met John Burroughs in 1904. As we walked together on our way to his rustic little house in the woods called "Slab-sides,"
