Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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Federalist No. 10, 1787
One of 85 essays advocating the ratification of the Constitution, addressing the dangers of factionalism and promoting the strengths of a large republic
Key Document
George Washington on Shays’ Rebellion, 1787
A letter discussing a rebellion in Massachusetts and the upcoming convention to revise the Articles of Confederation
Supporting Document
Federalist No. 1, 1787
One of 85 essays advocating the ratification of the Constitution, highlighting the importance of unity and a strong central government
Key Document
Gouverneur Morris to George Washington on Leadership, 1787
A letter to Washington reflecting on the uncertainty of ratification in states like New York and Pennsylvania
Supporting Document
Constitutional Convention, 1787
Delegates meet in Philadelphia to address weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, resulting in a new form of government
Event
James Madison’s Plan for a National Government, 1787
Letter musing on the balance of state and national government powers
Supporting Document
Mercy Otis Warren on the Signing of the Constitution, 1787
Reflections on the US Constitution and the benefits and challenges of a strong central government
Supporting Document
Abigail Adams Writes to Jefferson about Sally Hemings, 1787
A letter voicing concerns about Sally Hemings accompanying Polly Jefferson to Paris—citing her youth but praising her demeanor
Supporting Document
An Autobiographical Account from Childhood to Manumission, 1787
A personal story of an enslaved man’s struggle to purchase freedom for himself and his wife
Supporting Document
![Detail from "A new and accurate map of the colony of Massachusets [i.e. Massachusetts] Bay, in North America, from a late survey," 1781 (Library of Congress)](/sites/default/files/styles/research_thumbnail/public/2023-10/springfield_loc.jpg.webp?itok=iPzx8hk3)
Defending the Springfield Armory, 1787
A report to the governor on the militia’s defense of the armory during Shays’ Rebellion
Supporting Document
Gouverneur Morris Condemns Slavery at the Constitutional Convention, 1787
Morris fervently denounces slavery—advocating against its constitutional protection and the slave trade
Supporting Document
Samuel Adams to Richard Henry Lee on the US Constitution, 1787
A letter from a leading Revolutionary who became an anti-federalist
Supporting Document