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Adams calls the first special session of Congress...
Adams calls the first special session of Congress...
Item # 703222
May 26, 1797
THE PHENIX; OR WINDHAM HERALD, Connecticut, May 26, 1797
* Uncommon publication with nice masthead
* First special session of U.S. Congress
On the front page headed: "President's Speech which takes over half of the front page and a portion of page 2 is a report dated "May 16".
In the speech President John Adams discusses the increased tensions between the U.S. and France and informs Congress of the expulsion of the American minister to France. He also mentions future negotiations and recommends various defense measures, all relating to the Quasi War with France.
Of historical significance, this was the very first time a special session of Congress was called to order. Additionally, this is a very scarce title featuring an engraving of a phoenix in the masthead.
Four pages, archivally rejoined at the spine, very nice condition.
background: In 1797, soon after taking office, President John Adams called the first special session of Congress in American history. Convened on May 15, 1797, the session was prompted by escalating tensions with revolutionary France, which had begun seizing American ships in retaliation for the Jay Treaty with Britain. Adams used the occasion to deliver a message warning of the French threat and urging Congress to take defensive measures, including strengthening the Navy and preparing the country for potential conflict. This session marked the opening stage of what became known as the Quasi-War with France (1798–1800). Although Adams sought to avoid a full-scale war, the special session demonstrated his willingness to use executive authority to confront foreign challenges and set an important precedent for presidential use of extraordinary congressional sessions in times of crisis.
Category: The 1600's and 1700's
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