Endicott and the Red Cross by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Short summary

5 seconds

John Endicott tears the red cross from the British banner. By doing so, he wants to show that New England is a free country with its own religious and moral charters.

1 minute

The story is a scene of religious persecution and intolerance, with descriptions of various nifty little implements of torture, such as the pillar of shame, the stocks, and others. They are applied to those who refuse to adhere to the line of the religious party. The locals are upset to learn of the new outbreaks of tyranny that await them in the near future.

John Endicott, an old experienced warrior, along with the good moral and religious persecutors, rightly opposes any loss of their religious liberties. The armed militiamen march in formation to the governor for a reply.

When King Charles decides to send the governor to England, John Endicott makes a rebellious gesture by tearing off the red cross from the British banner. By this he demonstrates his dislike of the colonists. The people greet this feat with triumphant shouts; free New England has a new banner.