DEBATES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES, DURING THE FIRST SESSION OF THE FOURTH CONGRESS... [in two parts].

Philadelphia [PA]: printed for Benj. Franklin Bache, by Bioren & Madan, 1796. First edition. 8vo.; 386; 362 pp. Part I: UPON THE CONSTITUTIONAL POWERS OF THE HOUSE, WITH RESPECT TO TREATIES [bound with] Part II: UPON THE SUBJECT OF THE BRITISH TREATY. Contemporary leather binding; gilt stamped black morocco spine label; gilt decorations on spine. Some crackling and chipping to spine. Item #55344

Debates related to "Jay's Treaty," which was hotly contested in Congress and in American public opinion. The Treaty of Paris in 1783, which ended the American Revolution, provided for the British to cede their posts in the Northwest Territory, and ease restrictions on US-British trade. The years following did not see either provision successfully implemented. In fact, with the escalation to war between France and Britain, American ships and seamen were subjected to seizure by Great Britain. Tensions mounted between the fledgling American government and Britain until President Washington sent John Jay to negotiate a treaty. The highly unpopular treaty, an attempt to prevent a renewal of hostilities with Britain, was ratified in June of 1795. Thomas Jefferson, a strong supporter of France, was highly critical of the treaty, while Alexander Hamilton and his following were very much in favor. The intense debates furthered the creation of the party system in the new United States. In addition, it led to debates over Congressional powers with regard to the negotiation of treaties. This is a fundamental piece of early American legal, political and diplomatic history.

Price: $2,000.00