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Robert Carter Nicholas
- Born 1728
- Graduate of College of William & Mary
- Able lawyer
- Served 10 years as burgess
- Died 1780
Conservative Virginia patriot
Robert Carter Nicholas, like Speaker Peyton Randolph, Edmund Pendleton, and George Wythe, was one of Virginia's conservative patriots. A graduate of the College of William and Mary and an able lawyer, Nicholas served for 10 years as a burgess before becoming treasurer of the colony in 1766. Nicholas helped draft the resolutions of the House of Burgesses against the proposed Stamp Act in 1764, but opposed the "young hot, and giddy members" who supported Patrick Henry's Stamp Act resolves in May, 1765.
Introduced resolution for June 1 day of fasting and prayer
Nicholas introduced the resolution of May 23, 1774, setting aside June 1 as a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer in sympathy with embargoed Boston. He is also remembered for trying to prevent premature violence in March, 1775, by opposing Patrick Henry's resolution to raise 10,000 regulars "for the duration." Although Nicholas was never an advocate of independence, his legal skill and unquestioned integrity led to his appointment to the Court of Chancery in January 1778.
Multimedia and related links
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A Slave's Perspective
The Declaration of Independence was a promise extended to white men only. Hope Smith portrays Eve, a slave in the Peyton Randolph house. July 16, 2007
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Mr. Wythe's Cook
Valarie Holmes interprets Lydia Broadnax - a cook for one of Williamsburg's most influential men. June 19, 2006
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James Armistead
Interpreter Richard Josey talks about an enslaved man who became a valuable spy during the Revolution. September 26, 2005
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Smallpox and the Covenant
America's smallpox eradication has its roots in 18th-century Boston. July 13, 2009
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Carolyn Wilson on Betty Randolph and Independence
In the pursuit of American independence, Betty Randolph played the role of lady and wife, enabling husband Peyton to fight for freedom. June 21, 2005
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A Splendid Coincidence
Inspiration intersects with means in a partnership that resurrects a city. Character interpreter Ed Way portrays W.A.R. Goodwin at Colonial Williamsburg. November 3, 2008
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Journal articles
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The Truth About Betsy Ross
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A Man of Firmness
Justice John Blair and the Letter of the Law
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Captain John Smith
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To Boldly Go
Captain James Cook and the Search for the Northwest Passage
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