THE CRISIS, London, England, September  16, 1775 

* Very rare Revolutionary War newspaper 
* Pro-American 

This is a very rare title which I have not seen offered in the American market for over 29 years. This extraordinary paper was considered one of the most bitter political sheets to be found, issued in London both in defense of American liberty & their cause for independence, as well as to attack the policies of the King of England. One scholar noted: "This title, which is of great rarity, contains a remarkable collection of papers attacking the Ministry and the British Government in terms of the greatest severity. Indeed, one can hardly believe that in time of war a publication of such character would be tolerated." The editor certainly did not lack courage. The third number was ordered to be burned but their attacks, centering on the King and the American situation, only grew bolder & stronger.

This issue deals with freedom of the press, and includes a paragraph stating in part: "...whatever essays may be sent to me in defence of the chartered rights & constitutional liberties of the brave Americans, who are nobly struggling in the cause of Freedom against the Treachery, fraud, and force of impolitic, cruel, bloody, and unfeeling TYRANTS shall be immediately inserted in the CRISIS..." and "...the CRISIS will be found to contain the most spirited essays in favour of PUBLIC LIBERTY and the Natural Rights of mankind--I am determined at every hazard to support the Freedom of the Press, I shall never be intimidated by, nor submit to, any Star Chamber summons from the King's attorney General..." and so much more (see the many photos).

This is a six page issue measuring 7 by 11 1/4 inches and is in nice condition with a bit of dirtiness on some margins. A very rare opportunity for a very rare title that lasted for only 91 issues. This is not related in any way to the pamphlet of the same title written by Thomas Paine.