The Declaratory Act of 1766 reaffirmed what key principle about British authority?

The Declaratory Act of 1766 is a significant piece of legislation that underscores the principle of parliamentary sovereignty over the American colonies. By affirming that Parliament had the right to legislate for the colonies in all cases whatsoever, this act reinforced the idea that British authority was supreme and that the colonies were subject to British laws.

Despite the repeal of the Stamp Act, the Declaratory Act was meant to assert British control and counteract the colonial protests. This assertion was fundamental to the relationship between Britain and the colonies, emphasizing that Parliament could impose taxes and make laws affecting the colonists at its discretion, irrespective of local opinions or governance.

Consequently, this act acted as a clear message to the colonies that while they might resist certain taxes, the overarching authority of Parliament remained intact and unchallenged. This principle would continue to create tension between Britain and the colonies as the situation evolved leading up to the Revolutionary War.