Seth Kaller, Inc.

With “Business of much Importance to America” such as life, death, and money on the table, Congress thought it important to have full representation from all the states to make laws and reinforce the legitimacy of their decisions. A 1776 date less than three months after the Declaration of Independence and Hancock’s bold signature make this document especially desirable.

JOHN HANCOCK. Manuscript Document Signed, as President of the Continental Congress, October 1, 1776, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 1 p., 8 x 12½ in.

Inventory #25886.99       Price: $32,000

Complete Transcript

In Congress Oct^r 1^st 1776.

Whereas a full Representation in Congress of the several United States is highly necessary on Business of much Importance to America, therefore

Resolved, That the President be desired to write Letters to the Conventions and Assemblies of the respective States, requesting that Measures be taken to cause as speedily as possible a full Representation of the States in Congress.

By order of Congress

John Hancock Presid^t

Four months after breaking with England, the heady days of independence had been overshadowed by losses against British General Howe in New York, with George Washington barely saving his army after being forced to evacuate Long Island. The Second Continental Congress had to manage the war effort under increasingly difficult financial and strategic circumstances. On September 24, Washington wrote Congress of his frustrations using local militias and the difficulties of raising and training an army. American losses during the fall 1776 campaign season made Congressional action all the more pressing. Washington and his army remained in the field, but only barely, and with winter approaching, the fate of the Revolution hung in the balance.