(Source: Lostpine — The 27 Grievances Explained)
🔹 1. Original Grievance
“For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighboring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government…”
🔹 2. What This Meant to the Colonists
The King changed the laws in Quebec to create an authoritarian government, and colonists feared the same system would be imposed on them.
🔹 3. Historical Context
The Quebec Act of 1774 expanded French civil law, enlarged Canada’s territory, and protected Catholic practice. Colonists saw this as a model for imposing arbitrary rule on the colonies.
🔹 4. Constitutional Response
- Article IV, Section 3 — Congress controls territories.
- 1st Amendment — freedom of religion. These ensure the government cannot impose foreign legal systems or religious requirements.
🔹 5. Key Vocabulary
- Quebec Act
- Arbitrary government
- Civil law
🔹 6. Critical Thinking Questions
- Why did the Quebec Act alarm the colonists?
- How does the Constitution prevent arbitrary government?
- Why is religious freedom essential to a free society?
🔹 7. Short Writing Prompt
Explain how Grievance 20 shows the colonists’ fear of losing their legal and religious freedoms.
🔹 8. Extension Activity
Create a map showing Quebec’s expanded boundaries under the 1774 Act.