Boston Massacre (Old State House)

On March 5, 1770, British soldiers fired into a crowd in front of the Old State House, killing five colonists including Crispus Attucks. The incident, widely labeled the Boston Massacre, took place at the intersection adjacent to the building and became a major event leading up to the American Revolution. British soldiers were later tried for homicide; several were acquitted or convicted of lesser charges after defense by John Adams. The Old State House stands on the same site and houses exhibits interpreting the event.