Extracts from a letter from the Earl of Dartmouth to Josiah Martin, 5 July 1775. Catalogue ref: CO 5/318 f110-112.
Josiah Martin, British officer, and last British Governor of North Carolina (1771- 1776.)
Transcript
In consequence of the Advices received from all Quarters, that not only the four New England Governments are in Arms, but that almost every other Colony has catched the flame, and a spirit of Rebellion has gone forth that menaces the subversion of the Constitution, it is the King’s firm resolution, that the most vigorous efforts should be made, both by sea and land to reduce his Rebellious Subjects to obedience, and the proper Measures are now pursuing not only for augmenting the Army under General Gage, but also for making such addition to our Naval strength in North America as may enable Admiral Graves to make such a Disposition of His Fleet
…
There is still some room to hope that the Colonies to the Southward may not proceed to the same lengths with those of New England, it is however His Majesty’s Intention, that the Commander of the separate Squadrons I have mentioned should be instructed to prevent all Commerce between the Colonies within their respective stations.
…
With regard to the plan of operations to be adopted by General Gage, it must depend upon his own Judgment, and the opinion of the able Generals with him, and therefore I have only to add, that it is His Majesty’s express Command, that you do exert every Endeavour, and employ every means in your power to aid and support him and Admiral Graves, in all such operations as they may think proper to undertake for carrying the King’s orders into full execution, and restoring the Authority of His Majesty’s Government.
…
- What does this letter reveal about Britain’s strategy towards the Southern colonies during the American Revolution?
- Why do you think the British saw the Southern colonies as less likely to rebel than those in the North?
- What does this source infer about the role played by British commanders in directing the war effort?
- How does the language used in this source inform our understanding about British perceptions of the conflict?