THE PUBLIC MIND: MAY IS A CRITICAL MONTH IN HISTORY OF INDEPENDENCE

To the Editor:

Most Americans think of July as the "patriotic month" of our country. But the month of May should be remembered for some very significant patriotic events which were extremely important to America's independence and freedom.

In May 1765 Patrick Henry introduced resolutions on the floor of the Virginia House of Burgesses that condemned the British Parliament and the Crown for "taxation without representation." It was startling and dangerous. Interrupted by cries of "treason," he replied: "If this be treason, make the most of it."

On May 6, 1769, George Washington, Virginia planter, presented "Resolves" drafted by George Mason as "Virginia Resolves" declaring that only the colonies themselves had the right to levy taxes in Virginia and that Americans could not be taken to England for prosecution and trial.

In the famous "Mecklenburg Resolves," North Carolina patriots declared, on May 31, 1775, that British laws were "wholly suspended". While these "resolves" were never presented to the Continental Congress, the very fact of their existence stirred the fires of "independence" in American hearts.

The "Rhode Island Declaration of Independence," passed by its General Assembly on May 4, 1776, denied the British Kings' authority and urged the Continental Congress to take any measures they deemed prudent and effectual.

Finally, on May 6, 1776, a "rebel" Virginia Convention of 131 colonial delegates who had been instructed by their "constituents" to "cast off the British yoke" met at Williamsburg. Nine days later this "convention" instructed its representatives to the Continental Congress to move "to declare the United Colonies free and independent states."

Without these crucial moments of history in the month of May there would have been no July 4, 1776, Declaration of Independence or September 17, 1787, Signing of the Constitution of the USA in Philadelphia.

The Missouri Society of the Sons of the American Revolution urges all Americans this month of May to remember with gratitude the courage, wisdom, and commitment exemplified by these founding forefathers and to emulate it.

Dr. Walter A. Schroeder,

President of the

Allen Laws Oliver Chapter-SAR

Cape Girardeau