An Act To Regulate Trade And Intercourse With The Indian Tribes, And To Preserve Peace On The Frontier

THOMAS-PRESIDENT JEFFERSON

Publication: Philadelphia Aurora, 1802, Philadelphia

One-page extract from the newspaper, the Philadelphia Aurora, April 16, 1802. 20.5"x16". Five-column text. Signed in type by President Thomas Jefferson, Vice-President Aaron Burr, and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Macon. This act was first promulgated in 1790 and renewed every two years until this 1802 permanent version, which remained in force until 1834. This complete printing of the Act is headed with a vibrant woodcut of the American eagle holding arrows in one claw and an olive branch in the other, the American shield on midsection, and with a banner inscribed "E Pluribus Unum." Below in brackets is "By Authority." The Act is lengthy and occupies almost 90% of the page. The page has one horizontal and one vertical fold and a little chipping to the blank margin along the left edge, not affecting the text. Very good condition, and would display well. This is a significant piece of legislation during Thomas Jefferson’s presidency. "The act stipulated that no person could engage in trade or intercourse with Indian tribes without a license issued by the superintendent of the relevant department or another person appointed by the President of the United States; it required the applicant to provide one or more sureties and enter into a bond of $1,000 (payable to the President) to ensure compliance with rules and regulations governing Indian trade and interaction123; it aimed to regulate and facilitate trade between settlers and Indian tribes; it recognized the importance of maintaining peace on the frontier by ensuring fair and lawful interactions; it addressed the issue of ardent spirits (alcohol) abuse among Indians; and it emphasized the importance of defining boundaries between settlers and Indian territories123. The legislature considered whether the punishment for certain offenses by Indians (such as death by hanging) could be commuted to military execution to avoid cultural sensitivities. In summary, this act played a crucial role in shaping trade relations, preserving peace, and addressing cultural considerations between settlers and Native American tribes during the early 19th century." An important record.

Inventory Number: 52187