Adams, John (1735-1826)
to unknown, with congressional resolve re: compiling British hostilities
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Place Written: Philadelphia
Type: Autograph letter signed
Date: 24 October 1775
Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 21 x 17 cm
Summary of Content: May have been source for Declaration of Independence’s list. Cosigned by George Wythe and Silas Deane, with an AMS copy of the resolution signed by Charles Thomson.
Full Transcript: Philadelphia Octr. 24. 1775, , Sir The Congress has resolved, that a just account of the Hostilities committed by the ministerial Army and Navy in America, Since the Month of March last, be collected, with proper Evidence of all the Facts; the number and Value of the Buildings destroyed, the Vessells, whether inward or outward bound, Seized or captivated, and the Stock of all kinds, plundered, in any Part of the Continent, as you will See by an authenticated Copy of the Resolution, here inclosed, It is apprehended, that little need be Said to Shew the Utility and Necessity of this Measure. It may be necessary for our Justification, in the Judgment of the People of Great Britain as well as foreign Nations; for the general Information of the Colonies, and the use of History, to say no more, [2] The Distance of this Place, from the Scenes of Violence, makes it necessary for us to apply to Several Assemblies, as well as to private Gentlemen, for Assistance; and from your Character it is presumed you will not be unwilling to yield us all the Aid in your Power. , It will be requisite that every Fact be supported by Affidavit, authenticated by the highest Authority of the Place, where they shall be taken. , our Apology for giving you this Trouble, is the manifest Utility of it, to the common Cause of the Colonies, in these Times of public Distress and Danger. We subscribe ourselves with great Respect, Sir, your most obedient , and very humble Servants, Silas Deane, John Adams, George Wythe, , , , [docket], Philadelphia Octor. 24. 1775, Letter from Members, of Congress -
Background: Notes: The responses received to this document’s request for a list of British hostilities may have been the source for that list in the Declaration of Independence.
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