John Murray, Earl of Dunmore, Governor of the colony of Virginia, issues an emancipation proclamation, declaring martial law, and offering freedom the African slaves of colonial rebels, who leave their masters and fight to suppress the growing rebellion against British rule.

       Postscript: This became the “Capstone Grievance” in the unanimous Declaration (of Independence): “He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us. …”

       [added 7/3/2021] Thanks to Woody Holton for this entry.