Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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Federalist No. 51, 1788
One of 85 essays advocating the ratification of the Constitution, providing insight into the different branches of government, particularly the importance of checks and balances and the separation of powers
Key Document
Petition over Enslavement of Free Black People, 1788
Protest urging Massachusetts to intervene in the abduction of free Black Bostonians
Supporting Document
Thomas Jefferson on Manumitting Slaves, 1789
Letter sent from Paris reflecting on freeing slaves—revealing his conflicting beliefs on liberty and equality amid the revolution
Supporting Document
The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, 1789
Autobiography detailing Olaudah Equiano’s enslavement, his journey to freedom, and fight against the slave trade
Key Document
George Washington’s Reluctance to Become President, 1789
A letter by Washington reflecting on the uncertain future and the inevitability of his election to the presidency
Supporting Document
Gouverneur Morris on the Liberty of France, 1789
A report on the rumblings of revolution in France
Supporting Document
Lafayette on the New US Constitution, 1789
Letter discussing European affairs and the challenges of enacting the US Constitution
Supporting Document
Martha Washington on Her New Role as First Lady, 1789
A newsy letter from the First Lady on her travels to New York and her activities in the capital
Supporting Document
George Washington’s First Inaugural Address, 1789
Precedent-setting speech that emphasized national unity, civic duty, and the importance of the Constitution, which set the tone for his presidency
Key Document
A Businessman on the Assumption of State Debt, 1790
Facing bankruptcy, a Massachusetts man summarizes the debates on constitutionality and prudence
Supporting Document
Petition to Congress for the Abolition of Slavery, 1790
A petition that sparked heated debate and was drastically altered in the House of Representatives
Supporting Document
Patrick Henry on States’ Rights, 1790
Letter to the governor of Georgia arguing against federal encroachment on land ownership
Supporting Document