What event is known as the Boston Massacre?

The Boston Massacre refers to a critical incident that occurred on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers opened fire on a crowd of colonists, resulting in the deaths of five individuals. This event heightened tensions between the American colonies and Britain, as it was viewed as an example of British oppression and brutality. The incident was widely publicized and used as a rallying point for colonial resistance against British rule. The portrayal of the massacre in propaganda highlighted the conflict between colonial grievances and British authority, significantly contributing to the growing revolutionary sentiment in America.

This understanding of the Boston Massacre is crucial for grasping its importance in the context of pre-revolutionary America, as it directly influenced public opinion and galvanized opposition to British policies.