An Earlier Conciliatory Resolution

The Conciliatory Resolution was Parliaments response to the colonies petitions regarding the coercive acts. An attempt to reach a peaceful settlement with the colonies, it stated that colonies that contributed a certain amount to the empire (that they could raise which ever way they wished) they would be exempt from the Revenue taxes that had been levied on the colonies.

In any event, the Resolution arrived far to late, reaching the colonies after the shots at Lexington and Concord. But what if similar measures had been passed months before, or the resolution had arrived to the colonies earlier? Would this have been enough to prevent hostilities and repair British-colonial relations, or was it too little, and already too late?
 
Probably still "too little too late."

While it is possible that "an earlier Conciliatory Resolution" might have halted the drive towards open rebellion and Independence.

It probably wouldn't have been enough, however, to really address the many underlying causes of the Rebellion. Even "an earlier Conciliatory Resolution" in, let's say, March 1776 wouldn't have been enough.

You still have British troops in Boston. Taxation and Representation issues. All of the issues and causes still (pretty much) un-addressed.

If you want to prevent American Independence, I think that you need an earlier POD. I've always felt that the best chance would have been at the end of the French and Indian War, in the 1761-1763 time frame.

First, the Crown, the Government, and Parliament would have to, essentially, agree (or agree to something pretty similar) to Franklin's 1754 Plan of Union. Essentially, invent "Dominion" status - just 100 years early.

Second, having done this, the Imperial government would also have to impose a portion of the cost of the "French and Indian War" on the (new) Viceroyalty of North America.

Third (and Fourth): Instead of keeping Quebec and giving the French Guadaloupe back - the British should keep the spice and sugar Cash Cow Caribbean island and let the French keep frozen and furry Quebec.

This also keeps the French as a "threat" vis-a-vis the VNA - which, in turns, keeps the colonists so much more appreciative (and needful) of the United British Empire's military power.

Really, in order to keep the "First" British Empire intact, I think you need a POD from OTL about 15 or 20 years before 1776. By the spring and summer of 1776, events as well as perceptions (on both sides) have really made it too late to stop American Independence.

By 1776, the only thing that can stop American Independence is a better application of British Military power. Say, the British capture or kill General Washington and break his army at the Battle of New York (etc., etc.).

And, of course, deal with diehards (for ever after...).
 
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