(Source: Lostpine — The 27 Grievances Explained)
🔹 1. Original Grievance
“For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offenses.”
🔹 2. What This Meant to the Colonists
Colonists could be taken to England or another colony for trial, far from witnesses and evidence.
🔹 3. Historical Context
The Administration of Justice Act (1774) allowed royal governors to send colonists accused of crimes to England for trial. Colonists believed this made fair trials impossible and was designed to intimidate them.
🔹 4. Constitutional Response
- Article III, Section 2 — trials held in the state where the crime occurred.
- 6th Amendment — an impartial jury from the local community. These prevent citizens from being transported elsewhere for trial.
🔹 5. Key Vocabulary
- Indictment
- Venue
- Administration of Justice Act
🔹 6. Critical Thinking Questions
- Why is it unfair to try someone far from where the crime occurred?
- How does the Constitution protect local justice?
- What problems arise when trials happen without local witnesses?
🔹 7. Short Writing Prompt
Describe how Grievance 19 reflects the colonists’ belief in fair, local justice.
🔹 8. Extension Activity
Write a short journal entry from a colonist forced to stand trial in England.