The rebellion against Sir Edmund Andros was a crucial moment in New England's colonial history, born out of widespread discontent with his harsh rule as the governor of the Dominion of New England. Established in 1686, the Dominion aimed to streamline governance under one authority but faced fierce resistance from the colonies due to its interference with local governance and imposition of taxes without consent. Many colonists felt their rights were being encroached upon, leading to a growing unrest. As news of the Glorious Revolution in England reached the colonies, it inspired Bostonians to act against Andros's oppressive regime.

On April 18, 1689, the citizens of Boston took action, organizing a rebellion that culminated in the seizure of the governor’s mansion and the arrest of Andros. The local militia played a vital role, joined by various factions of the community who sought to restore their self-governance. As a result, Andros was detained for several months, during which time the dominion's grip over the New England colonies weakened significantly. This revolt exemplified the growing desire for autonomy among the colonies, a desire that would continue to simmer and eventually contribute to broader revolutionary sentiments in the future.

The immediate aftermath saw the dissolution of the Dominion and a return to more localized governance. The rebellion signified not just a moment of local resistance but marked a pivotal point in the fostering of political identity among the colonists, setting the stage for future conflicts with British authority. The sense of empowerment and community that emerged from this event would reverberate throughout the colonies, influencing their push toward independence in the years to follow.