Thomas Hutchinson: Villain or Victim?

07/11/2025 1h 0min
Thomas Hutchinson: Villain or Victim?

Listen "Thomas Hutchinson: Villain or Victim?"

Episode Synopsis

How much do you know about Thomas Hutchinson? Did you ever hear about Thomas in history class? Why did some colonists continue to side with the British even with their taxes and overreach? Do you know how the social system work in the 13 colonies before the revolution? How long have historians been writing history? 



On today’s episode of Founded we’re finding out all about Thomas Hutchinson. He may have been a villain to some, but is that all he was? By exploring Hutchinson’s story we can gain a lot more perspective on the big picture. The patriots targeted him for his commitment to the crown, the various positions in government he held, and more- it’s time to hear his side of the story.



Key Players:

Thomas Hutchinson: Lt Governor of Massachusetts Bay colony and Chief Justice of Boston, loved being British, hated conflict

Belcher: Royal Governor of Massachusetts Bay colony Late 1730’s-Early 1740’s, known for Land Bank Debacle, mentor of Thomas Hutchinson

William Shirley: Royal Governor of Massachusetts Bay colony 1740’s- mid 1750’s, Friend of Thomas Hutchinson

Thomas Pownall: Royal Governor of Massachusetts Bay colony 1757-1760, lowkey corrupt, created problems for Thomas Hutchinson

Francis Bernard: Royal Governor of Massachusetts Bay colony 1760-1769, created more problems for Thomas Hutchinson

James Otis Jr: Lightening boy, prominent Boston lawyer, enemy of Thomas Hutchinson, patriot  

Reverend Mayhew: Known for fiery and often political sermons delivered from the pulpit, patriot



Sources



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