David Brown (Massachusetts protester) facts for kids

David Brown (1740–1812) was an American who believed strongly in free speech. He was punished for speaking out against the United States government. His actions led to the toughest sentence given under a law called the Sedition Act of 1798. This happened after he helped put up a special "liberty pole" in Dedham, Massachusetts.

Brown had also fought as a soldier in the American Revolutionary War.

Speaking Out for Freedom

After the war, David Brown traveled around towns. He spoke about his concerns regarding the new United States government. In November 1798, Brown and others, including Benjamin Fairbanks, put up a liberty pole in Dedham, Massachusetts.

The Liberty Pole Message

The pole had a message that showed what Brown believed in. It said things like "No Stamp Act, No Sedition Act, No Alien Bills, No Land Tax." It also wished for "downfall to the Tyrants of America." This message was aimed at the government and the President at the time, John Adams. It also showed support for Vice President Thomas Jefferson.

Arrest and Trial

David Brown was arrested in Andover, Massachusetts. He could not pay the money needed to be released before his trial. So, he was taken to Salem for his court case.

The Court's Decision

Brown's trial happened in June 1799. He wanted to admit he was guilty. However, the judge, Samuel Chase, wanted Brown to tell him who else had helped him. Brown refused to name anyone. He was then ordered to pay a fine of $480. He was also sentenced to eighteen months in prison. This was the longest prison sentence given under the Alien and Sedition Acts.

Life in Prison

In December 1800, David Brown's prison time was supposed to end. But he still could not pay the fine. President Adams would not let him go free. Brown stayed in prison.

A Plea for Release

In February 1801, Brown had been in prison for almost two years. This was the longest anyone had been held under the Sedition Act. He asked President Adams again to be released. But his request was denied once more.

Freedom at Last

In 1801, Thomas Jefferson became the new President. One of his first actions was to pardon David Brown. President Jefferson also pardoned everyone else who had been punished under the Sedition Act. This meant Brown was finally set free.