George Washington to Henry Knox on the Constitutional Convention, 2 April 1787

George Washington to Henry Knox on the Constitutional Convention, 2 April 1787
Author: George Washington
Publisher:
Total Pages: 0
Release: 1787
Genre:
ISBN:

Relates reasons for not wanting to attend the Constitutional Convention, including the possibility that all states might not attend (rendering representation partial). Notes that if all Delegates attend with the power to address and cure the defects of the Constitution, the Convention will be a worthwhile endeavor. Asks Knox to find out from his friends in Congress the degree of power Delegates will possess. Also asks him to probe for others' views regarding his attendance (or non-attendance). Hopes to see Knox in Philadelphia before the Convention (Knox will be there for a Society of the Cincinnati meeting), and to discuss the various problems with participating in the Convention. Fears the Convention may result in division. Complains of a recent Rheumatic complaint which may prevent his attendance in Philadelphia.

Henry Knox to George Washington Reporting Progress on the Ratification of the Constitution, 14 January 1788

Henry Knox to George Washington Reporting Progress on the Ratification of the Constitution, 14 January 1788
Author: Henry Knox
Publisher:
Total Pages: 0
Release: 1788
Genre:
ISBN:

Knox updates Washington on various state conventions meeting to decide on ratification of the United States Constitution. Writes, The new Constitution has hitherto been as well received as could have been expected considering the various existing opinions prejudices and parties in the respective states. Reports that Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Connecticut have all voted in favor of ratification. Mentions Jeremiah and James Wadsworth, both part of the Connecticut convention. Thinks Connecticut's decision to ratify will influence the Massachusetts convention (Massachusetts ratified the Constitution 6 February 1788). Discusses political factions in Massachusetts, including the commercial part, the Eastern part, and the insurgents and their favorers... Notes that Samuel Adams, one of the Massachusetts state ratifying convention members, has declared opposition to the Constitution. Comments on his rheumatism. Knox's retained draft.

Henry Knox to George Washington about the Ratification of the Constitution in Massachusetts and the Different Attitudes of Those who Oppose It, 14 February 1788

Henry Knox to George Washington about the Ratification of the Constitution in Massachusetts and the Different Attitudes of Those who Oppose It, 14 February 1788
Author: Henry Knox
Publisher:
Total Pages: 0
Release: 1788
Genre:
ISBN:

Reports on Massachusetts' adoption of the Constitution of the United States. Writes, It may with great truth be asserted that no subject was ever more candidly debated- Many of the minority express their determination, of inculcating the principle of union among their constituents. Categorizes those who oppose the Constitution into three groups: the insurgent interest, the desperate debtors, and honest men, without information whose minds are apprehensive of danger to their Liberties. Encloses a paper containing a description of the demonstration of Joy by the Boston people on the occasion (not present). Notes that New Hampshire's ratification convention assembled the previous day.

A More Perfect Union

A More Perfect Union
Author:
Publisher: National Archives & Records Administration
Total Pages: 40
Release: 1986
Genre: Political Science
ISBN:

Reprint. Originally published : Washington, D.C. : National Archives Trust Fund Board, 1978.

Ratification

Ratification
Author: Pauline Maier
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Total Pages: 608
Release: 2011-06-07
Genre: History
ISBN: 0684868555

The dramatic story of the debate over the ratification of the Constitution, the first new account of this seminal moment in American history in years.