Question

Question 2
Paul Revere published an engraving of the Boston Massacre for a specific reason. Study this illustration of Revere's engraving and analyze how he and the Patriots used this historical event to sway public opinion. Then answer the questions that follow about this primary source and determine what Revere’s motives were for publishing this illustration.

Who will see this illustration? Who is the audience?

Answer 1

Primary audience: the colonial public — especially people in Boston and the other towns of New England and the other colonies who read broadsides, newspapers, and viewed prints in public places. More specifically:
- Urban, literate colonists (artisans, shopkeepers, merchants, clergy, town leaders) who shaped and read public opinion.
- Patrons of taverns, coffeehouses, meetinghouses and print shops where the engraving would be posted, sold, and discussed.
- Patriot sympathizers and the undecided colonists Revere wanted to convince to his side.

Secondary audiences:
- People in other colonies reached by circulating prints and newspapers.
- British officials and readers in Britain (to embarrass and influence debate abroad).
- Even illiterate viewers who would see the image displayed in public and absorb its emotional message.

In short: Revere aimed the engraving at a broad colonial audience — especially the civic and commercial networks that formed and spread political opinion — to inflame anti‑British feeling and rally support for the Patriot cause.