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The Global Legacy of the Boston Tea Party

By: Benjamin L Carp
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

The Boston Tea Party wasn't just about tea — it was about power, protest, and independence. Its global connections and lasting impact still inspire movements for freedom across the world.

The article “The Global Legacy of the Boston Tea Party” from BBC's HistoryExtra explains how the 1773 protest in Boston was influenced by global trade, colonial oppression, and the British Empire's economic crisis. The protest, where patriots dumped tea into Boston Harbor, sparked a revolution and became a model for civil disobedience around the world.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
6-89-12
Subject:
Social Studies
Topic:
History
Keywords
Boston Tea PartyAmerican Revolutioncivil disobedienceEast India Companyglobal trade
A U.S. stamp commemorating the Boston Tea Party
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 900–1100L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1100–1300L
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