Very early, short-lived, colonial newspaper...

Item # 705186

September 06, 1753

THE INDEPENDENT REFLECTOR, New York, Sept. 6, 1753

* Rare Colonial New York
* Short lived publication

This rare newspaper lasted for less than one year, publishing but 52 issues. Primarily moral and political essays, it gave offense to men in power and was "suppressed by authorities", as Brigham relates.
A fine opportunity to purchase at a reasonable price a very early issue--over 270 years old--by James Parker from the colonial press of New York. American titles from the 1750's are rarely found.
The entire issue is taken up with a lengthy essay: "A Defense of Ridicule".
Four pages, 6 3/4 by 10 3/4 inches, various foxing, good condition.

AI notes: The Independent Reflector was a weekly periodical published in New York City from November 1752 to November 1753. Led by William Livingston, along with William Smith Jr. and John Morin Scott, it was New York’s first true periodical, offering essays on politics, religion, and morality influenced by Enlightenment ideals. It challenged Anglican authority, opposed public funding for King’s College, and promoted religious tolerance. Its sharp critiques drew government backlash, leading to its suppression after 52 issues. Though short-lived, it played a key role in shaping early American political thought and elevated Livingston as a major colonial voice.