The picture to the left, engraved by Paul Revere just weeks after the King Street Massacre, captures the powerful role that communication played leading up to the American Revolution. In his image, Revere purposefully misinterprets the events of that day to spark other colonists into joining resistance against the British crown. It was Samuel Adams who spread the news to other colonies, calling it the Boston Massacre, through a letter writing campaign.

As you read these journals, you will find many examples of how communication sparked revolutionary feelings among Patriots. Look for mentions of public gatherings at funerals and meeting houses, secret organizations like the Sons of Liberty, and outright acts of courageous communication like Paul Revere's famous ride.