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Retained draft of Hancocks' instructions to Massachusetts legislature

One manuscript written by John Hancock dated circa 1788. Pertaining to the selection of electors to vote for the President of the United States. He believes that such an act would not only strengthen the relations between the states but establish...

GLC07916

To: Oliver Fiske

Supporting ratification of the Constitution: "any further opposition to it at present would be productive of much greater evils." (written as a young law student)

GLC07974

Ratification of the Constitution

Ratification of the Constitution:" Opposition no doubt will be made to it in this stage ... even if well founded, [it] will in my opinion be improper."

GLC07979

[To the Voters of Baltimore-Town]

Co-signed by Samuel Sterett. Announces that two anti-Federalist candidates, David McMechen and Samuel Sterett, are pulling out of the election of delegates to the Maryland Ratification Convention because the principles they stand for have been...

GLC08175

to James Duane

Comments on a visit by Major North, who he describes as "a Genteel young man." Notes an unconfirmed report that Massachusetts ratified the Constitution and hopes it will compel other states to do the same. Criticizes Robert R. Livingston for his...

GLC07109

The Constitution of the United States [Connecticut ratification act printing]

Ratification of the U.S. Constitution, printing the Constitution, with the act of the Connecticut Convention, ratifying it 9 January 1788 at end. Connecticut was the fifth state to ratify the new Constitution. This is presumed to have been printed at...

GLC07142

Gazette of the United States. [No. 76 (January 2, 1790)]

re: urging ratification of Bill of Rights in Virginia; "an act providing for the expenses which may attend negotiations with Indian tribes ..." etc.

GLC07268

to Elbridge Gerry re: people's perspective of the Constitution

"When we begin to practice on a constitution like that which is now before us, we should have men in the administration, who, from principle and habit, are firmly attached to the liberties of the people and the rights of the particular states... I am...

GLC07300

Amendments of the Constitution, submitted to the consideration of the American people.

Argues for constitutional amendments to abolish slavery, establish universal citizenship and prosecute treason. Issued during the ratification process of the Thirteenth Amendment proposes a number of amendments, and discusses them in context of...

GLC08996

to Stephen Van Rensselaer

Indicates that he has heard news of Virginia's ratification of the Constitution and offers his congratulations. He had been worried about the consequences for the country had Virginia not ratified. Believes the adoption in Virginia will have a...

GLC07537