Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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The Stamp Act, 1765
A tax on printed materials imposed by Britain on American colonies—sparking widespread protest and contributing to revolutionary sentiments
Key Document
Declaration of the Causes and Necessity for Taking Up Arms, 1775
An address listing the colonists’ grievances and asserting the right to self-defense
Key Document
The Farmer Refuted, 1775
A defense of American colonial rights against British tyranny secretly written by Alexander Hamilton—fueling revolutionary sentiment
Key Document
Hamilton’s Report on the Subject of Manufactures, 1791
The third part of Alexander Hamilton’s vision for the economy advocated industrialization, tariffs, and government support for infrastructure
Key Document