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Early ad for Paine's Common Sense... Much on war events in Virginia...
Early ad for Paine's Common Sense... Much on war events in Virginia...
Item # 704394
January 13, 1776
THE PENNSYLVANIA EVENING POST, Philadelphia, Jan. 13, 1776 Wonderful to find a newspapers not just dated 1776, but from Philadelphia.
The front page begins with a Resolve from Congress dated January 11, 1776, beginning: "Whereas it appears to this Congress, that several evil disposed persons, in order to obstruct and defeat the efforts of the United Colonies in the defense of their just rights, have attempted to depreciate the Bills of Credit emitted by the authority of this Congress..." with more, signed in type by the Secretary: Charles Thomson.
The balance of the front page is taken from a report from the Virginia Gazette concerning events near Norfolk, the first letter beginning: "It is now certain that the Provincials are on their march from Williamsburg for this place, or Norfolk...they come with a professed intention of destroying both by fire..." with much more fine content.
These reports carry over to take half of page 2.
Of notable significance is the back page advertisement dated at Philadelphia, January 9, 1776, beginning: "This day was published, and is now selling by Robert Bell, in Third street (price two shillings) COMMON SENSE, addressed to the Inhabitants of America, on the following interesting subjects..." with more. Historical accounts differ on the formal date of Common Sense being published, some noting January 9 and others January 10.
Many history scholars have credited this work with leading the charge for independence from, rather than reconciliation with, England. The latter was the mood of most in America in early 1776, also a time when the spirits of the American forces was at their lowest ebb and their future military success looking very doubtful. Common Sense, by Thomas Paine, changed all that.
Wonderful to have this advertisement in a newspaper from Philadelphia, where Common Sense was published.
Four pages, never-trimmed margins, 8 1/4 by 10 1/2 inches, two small binding holes at the blank spine, very nice condition.
Category: Revolutionary War
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