liberty pole

[ lib-er-tee pohl ]

noun

1. Also called liberty tree. American History. a pole or tree, often with a liberty cap or a banner at the top, usually located on a village green or in a market square, used by the Sons of Liberty in many colonial towns as a symbol of protest against British rule and around which anti-British rallies were held.
2. a tall flagpole, traditionally with a liberty cap at the top, serving as a symbol of liberty.

Word History and Origins

Origin of liberty pole¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

They sailed away, leaving their flag still floating from the top of the liberty pole.

From Project Gutenberg

Then they destroyed a quantity of flour, cut down the liberty-pole, and set fire to the courthouse.

From Project Gutenberg

At this place there is a liberty pole set up by some of the brethren.

From Project Gutenberg

Against Fayette two bills were found; one for misdemeanor in raising the liberty pole in Uniontown.

From Project Gutenberg

This was the first Liberty pole planted in that state—the first meeting that was held on that subject.

From Project Gutenberg