On the way toward declaring independence, Americans saw themselves as a separate people in the process of birth. In 1774, the First Continental Congress drew up a highly specific code of behaviour banning cock-fighting, horse-racing, and theatre. Public executions took the place of drama, and strict regulations were placed on funerals. The book argues that Congress banned these activities because they were viewed as posing a threat to the values needed in order to make resistance to Britain successful. The book illustrates an example of cultural history, using activities like gambling and thea ... More

On the way toward declaring independence, Americans saw themselves as a separate people in the process of birth. In 1774, the First Continental Congress drew up a highly specific code of behaviour banning cock-fighting, horse-racing, and theatre. Public executions took the place of drama, and strict regulations were placed on funerals. The book argues that Congress banned these activities because they were viewed as posing a threat to the values needed in order to make resistance to Britain successful. The book illustrates an example of cultural history, using activities like gambling and theatre to illuminate the popular attitudes and government policy that contributed to the move toward Independence.