b) The Declaratory Act of 1766

The Declaratory Act of 1766, passed by the British Parliament, affirmed Parliament’s full power and authority to make laws binding the colonies “in all cases whatsoever.” This act was a direct response to the colonial opposition to the Stamp Act, which Parliament repealed the same day. The Declaratory Act asserted British authority over the colonies, emphasizing Parliament’s sovereignty. While it calmed tensions temporarily by repealing the Stamp Act, it also set the stage for future conflicts by asserting Parliament’s right to tax and legislate for the colonies without their consent.