Jonathan Trumbull's Choice
Updated 9/17/21
Jonathan Trumbull was the only colonial Governor to side with the Patriots during the American Revolution.
“…they are most firmly resolved to defend their rights and privileges to the last extremeity”
-Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Thomas Gage, April 28, 1775
Colonial Governors
At the outset of the American Revolution, the colonial governors sided with the Britain.
Although they were often elected by the colonists, they served at the pleasure of the King, and there is little doubt they thought it their duty to take actions in the best interest of His Majesty.
As the rebellion began, the governors dissolved their colonial assemblies. This forced the colonists to form independent, extralegal governing bodies. These Committees took the lead in creating militia units and assigning military positions for the Revolution.
This is how things unfolded in all of the rebelling colonies, with one important exception…
Connecticut
Jonathan Trumbull had taken over as Governor of Connecticut in 1769 when his predecessor passed away and was admired and respected by his constituents.
By the time hostilities broke out at Lexington and Concord, the other colonial governors began dissolving their assemblies.
Jonathan Trumbull hesitated.
Massachusetts Military Governor Thomas Gage wrote to Trumbull requesting assistance in suppressing the rebellion. He needed men and supplies.
Trumbull took a revolutionary step…he did not dissolve his legislature.
Instead, he allowed them to meet. They resolved to have Trumbull contact Gage and demand to know what actions he was taking to cease the fighting.
The Letter
Connecticut Governor Johnathan Trumbull had a decision to make. Was his duty to uphold the wishes of his King or the wishes of his constituents?
He chose his people.
Trumbull was the only colonial governor to side with the citizens of his State.
He wrote to Gage regarding the events in Massachusetts.
Trumbull was polite but firm. He demanded to know what was going to be done to restore peace and prosperity to the colonies. Trumbull wanted answers for why the British were fortifying Boston. He was curious why soldiers were going through the countryside taking ammunition and weapons.
Jonathan Trumbull was asking revolutionary questions.
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