'The constitutions of the several independent states of America … Published by order of Congress', 1781.
This handbook was printed shortly after the ratification of the Articles of Confederation.
It brought together key texts in the establishment of the United States, including treaties made with France against Britain.
Its contents provided domestic and international legitimacy for Congress.
This was extremely important for the Americans because the War of Independence had not yet been won.
The handbook was published in Philadelphia by Francis Bailey.
[NLS reference: S.194.h]
This item featured in our display about American independence, which ran from 4 July to 16 September 2012.