(Source: Lostpine — The 27 Grievances Explained)
🔹 1. Original Grievance
“He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.”
🔹 2. What This Meant to the Colonists
The King blocked the creation of fair courts and prevented colonists from having a functioning justice system. Without courts, colonists could not protect their rights.
🔹 3. Historical Context
In 1774, Parliament took away Massachusetts’ right to elect judges and instead allowed the King to appoint them. Jury trials were removed, and admiralty courts—loyal to Britain—handled many cases. Colonists saw this as a direct attack on justice.
🔹 4. Constitutional Response
- Article III, Section 2 — all crimes tried by jury.
- 6th Amendment — speedy, public trial by impartial jury.
- 7th Amendment — jury trials in civil cases. These protections ensure justice cannot be obstructed by any ruler.
🔹 5. Key Vocabulary
- Judiciary
- Admiralty court
- Impartial jury
🔹 6. Critical Thinking Questions
- Why is an independent court system essential for protecting rights?
- How do jury trials prevent abuse of power?
- What dangers arise when judges are controlled by a single ruler?
🔹 7. Short Writing Prompt
Explain how Grievance 8 shows the colonists’ belief that justice must be fair and independent.
🔹 8. Extension Activity
Create a diagram comparing colonial courts under British rule to U.S. courts today.