Thomas Gage

Thomas Gage (1721-1787) became governor of Massachusetts during 1774. Colonials generally despised him, especially when authorities in Britain ordered him to close the port of Boston.

He was also commander of British troops in the colony when war broke out at Lexington and Concord (in April of 1775).

Criticized for the battle of Bunker Hill, in which British casualties were high, Gage resigned his command in October, 1775. Upon his return to England, he stressed that "a large army must at length be employed to reduce these people."

Credits

U.S. National Archives, image 43/12/43-1153a