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The King declares Americans are free & independent...



Item # 703511

March 01, 1783

THE INDEPENDENT LEDGER & THE AMERICAN ADVERTISER, Boston, Feb. 24, 1783 

* Provisional Articles of Peace
* Ending the Revolutionary War
* America declared independent
* Kong George III of England


One of the best features of this issue is the masthead engraving which features a very patriotic theme: "All Hands with One Inflamed Enlightened Heart." signifying the 13 united colonies having a common, patriotic purpose. One of the more patriotic masthead engravings of the Revolutionary War era.
Certainly the most notable content is the very historic speech by the King of England to his Parliament, dated Dec. 5, 1782, which takes most of page 3, declaring that the Americans are free & independent people.
Most of his speech is set in larger-then-normal type, signifying the importance of this news. Much can be seen in the photos but some of the more important portions include: "...I lost no time giving the necessary orders to prohibit the further prosecution of offensive war upon the continent of North America...I did not hesitate to go the full length of the powers vested in me & offered to declare them Free and Independent States, by an Article to be inserted in the Treaty of Peace. Provisional Articles are agreed upon, to take effect whenever Terms of Peace shall be finally settled with the Court of France..." and so much more as can be seen. 
The Provisional Articles of peace the king refers to would be the treaty signed in Paris just five days before the king's statement.
At the end of the pronouncement the editor adds a jab to the King, set in large type: "What think ye of the AMERICAN CONGRESS now!!"
Four pages, some rubbing to front page folds, good condition.

This is a very historic announcement & great to have the King's pronouncement not only on the front page but in an American newspaper.
Four pages, very ornate & decorative masthead, an archival repair at the blank spine which effects but a few letters on ads inside, minimal margin wear & rubbing (see photos)
 

Item from Catalog 350 (released for January, 2025)

Category: Revolutionary War