Personal Narrative: The Stamp Act

It was a Saturday morning and I sent my eight children of to play with their friends. I was worried about the latest news that has been the most infuriating new I’ve ever gotten, the news of the Stamp Act. Why would they choose to tax all of the documents that have to do with paper? We are well of as a family, my husband is a lawyer and I only sometimes work as a seamstress but other than that I just do the housework. As a lawyer, Henry is very frustrated with how he will handle this tax when it takes effect. Almost all of what he does is on legal documents and we are going to be charged about ten shilling for only one court document is a complete outrage.

I just ignored the rage building up inside by doing some cleaning. When I was doing

I sighed as we entered the house, of course, he is very busy with his work and trying to find a way to prevent the Stamp Act with his co-workers. “I do not mean to bother you but, we have to talk to the children about the changes we have to make, do you have time after they get back from playing with their friends?” “I guess I can set some time apart, but aren’t the children going to be here already?” Glancing at the clock on the wall I realized he was right. I heard a small whisper in the hallway and by the looks of it Henry heard it too. We both stealthily walked towards the wall and saw eight children trying to hide behind each other. “Children, eavesdropping is not good. What do you have to say for yourselves?” Henry asked. “Apologies father for eavesdropping.” Eight small voices said in unison. “Come children we have to talk. ” I said while motioning them to follow me into the living room. All the children sat down without a word carrying solemn faces. “I do not know if you all know but, there is a new act that might happen called the Stamp Act.” Henry started “This is going to affect our family because we might have to spend more money on my

“We have to pay because the British spent too much money on the French and Indian War and now the only way they can pay the one-hundred thirty million pounds is by taxing us.” Elizabeth’s eyes widened when she heard how much the British owe. “That is not fair!” I answered. “We know sweetie that is why we are going to change things so we do not have to pay the tax.” “What are we going to change mother?” asked Elias, our oldest. “First of all your father and I will be here less often trying to find ways to stops all of this madness.” The children nodded in understanding “Also, this one might affect you more but we are no longer buying clothes that are from the British.” The twins gasped and Katherine protested. “Mother you are going to embarrass us by making us wear horrible clothing meanwhile others get to wear nice clothing!” “I agree, I am not going to be with all the nicely dressed guys because of my different clothing!” the other twin, William said. “Children no need to shout. Your other siblings are okay with it right?” Henry