Early American Documents
The historical documents written by this country's Founders reflect their view of the America of their time.....and the America of what was to be. Here you can examine close up the message in these early american documents.
What does the Constitution say about the people and the events of those days? Thumb through the opening pages of Tom Paine's Common Sense or his Rights of Man, read the writings that stirred the souls of freedom-loving people around the world. The Northwest Ordinance, the Articles of Confederation, or Washington's proclamation of the first Thanksgiving — all embody the spirit and energy that helped shape a country in the making.
Rare Images of Early American Documents
Click any of the images below for a larger view.
 Articles of Confederation, the First Constitution of The United States |
 The Constitution As It Appeared in the Pennsylvania Packet 2 Days After It Was Signed |
 Title Page of Tom Paine's Pamphlet, "Common Sense", Urging America's Independence |
 Title Page of 'The Rights of Man' by Thomas Paine |
 Washington's Proclamation of America's First Thanksgiving |
 The Northwest Ordinance Opened Lands to the West for Settlers And Development |