On March 5, 1770, British soldiers fired on a crowd of people in Boston. Six people died from gunshot wounds. This event became known as the Boston Massacre. British law required a fair trial by a jury for those involved in the massacre. Both the Loyalists and the Patriots wanted to see justice. The Loyalists felt the soldiers should be pardoned. The Patriots, though, wanted to find the soldiers guilty in a fair trial to prove to the world that America could be seen as a place where justice resides. Both sides wanted to calm people down and avoid further bloodshed. Part A
From Captain Preston’s point of view, what happened during the Boston Massacre?

Part B
What was happening at this time in history?

Part C
What is the main idea or topic being expressed?

Part D
How is the message conveyed to the audience?

Part E
Who will read this testimony? Who is the audience?

Part F
What is the feeling, tone, or mood being conveyed? Why would the captain use this tone?