THE CONNECTICUT COURANT, Hartford CT, March 5, 1787.

* United States government creation
* Constitutional Convention authorized
* Historic 18th century issue

A significant issue on the creation of our federal government, as page two has a report headed: "By the United States in Congress Assembled, February 21, 1787" which contains the historic document authorizing the creation of a constitutional convention, portions reading:

* Whereas there is provision in the articles of Confederation & perpetual Union for making alterations...And whereas experience hath evinced that there are defects in the present Confederation, as a means to remedy which...have suggested a Convention for the purposes expressed in the following Resolution...that in the opinion of Congress it is expedient that on the second Monday in May next a Convention of Delegates...be held at Philadelphia for the sole & express purpose of revising the articles of Confederation...

with more (see for full text).

This wording is identical to that found in the "Records of the Federal Convention of 1787" (see their website), and see also Schlesinger's "Almanac Of American History".

Half of pg. 3 is taken up with reports concerning the Shays' Rebellion, one item beginning: "The goals in these counties are pretty well filled with Shays's officers (as they are called) & other characters who have been taken or have surrendered themselves up..." (photos show only portions).

Four pages, scattered foxing, a hole at the very center of both leaves is just below the Constitutional Convention item with a repaired tear extending up into the report a bit not affecting readability (see).

A very significant issue on the creation of the United States government.