United States in Congress Assembled Journals

Journals of the United States
in Congress Assembled
United States of America

Charles Thomson, Secretary

March 1, 1781 – March 3, 1789
Chronology  

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Articles of Confederation Congress
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions

USCA	Session Dates	USCA Convene Date	President(s)
First	03-01-1781 to 11-04-1781*	03-02-1781	Samuel Huntington &  Thomas McKean
Second	11-05-1781 to 11-03-1782	11-05-1781	John Hanson
Third	11-04-1782 to 11-02-1783	11-04-1782	Elias Boudinot
Fourth	11-03-1783 to 10-31-1784	11-03-1783	Thomas Mifflin
Fifth	11-01-1784 to 11-06-1785	11-29-1784	Richard Henry Lee
Sixth	11-07-1785 to 11-05-1786	11-23-1785	John Hancock &  Nathaniel Gorham
Seventh	11-06-1786 to 11-04-1787	02-02-1787	Arthur St. Clair
Eighth	11-05-1787 to 11-02-1788	01-21-1788	Cyrus Griffin
Ninth	11-03-1788 to 03-03-1789**	None	None

The Articles of Confederation

The Articles of Confederation, passed by the Continental Congress on November 15, 1777, required unanimous ratification by all 13 states to take effect. This process, however, faced significant delays due to disputes over the equitable distribution and governance of western territorial land claims.

Maryland’s Delay and Western Land Disputes

Maryland delayed its ratification of the Articles for three years, largely due to concerns about the vast western land claims held by larger states. At the core of Maryland's objections was the issue of fairness and equity in how the western territories, particularly the uncharted lands beyond the Appalachian Mountains, would be managed. Several states, including Virginia, New York, and Massachusetts, based their extensive land claims on colonial charters granted by the British crown. These claims encompassed regions that would later form the Northwest Territory, including the future states of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. [1]

These land-rich states stood to gain enormous financial and political advantages through the sale and settlement of these territories, increasing their wealth, population, and influence. Conversely, smaller states such as Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, which had no western land claims, feared this imbalance would consolidate disproportionate power in favor of the larger states. Maryland’s refusal to ratify the Articles was driven by the concern that such inequality would undermine the unity and stability of the fledgling nation. [2]

Compromise and Ratification

Maryland’s resistance eventually prompted key compromises, orchestrated by influential figures such as John Hanson, Daniel Carroll, James Madison, and Continental Congress President Samuel Huntington. These negotiations led to agreements requiring states with large land claims to cede their territories to the federal government. This decision ensured that the lands would benefit the entire nation rather than individual states. [3]

On January 30, 1781, Maryland passed an act empowering its delegates to ratify the Articles of Confederation, with Governor Thomas Sim Lee signing the act into law on February 2, 1781. [4] Shortly thereafter, on February 20, 1781, Maryland delegate Daniel Carroll formally presented the state’s ratification to Congress. [5] Carroll expressed pride in delivering this pivotal act, as noted in a letter to his cousin, Charles Carroll of Carrollton. Two days later, John Hanson, another Maryland delegate, arrived in Philadelphia to officially ratify the Articles on behalf of Maryland. [6]

Adoption of the Articles of Confederation

With Maryland’s ratification, the Articles of Confederation were officially adopted on March 1, 1781. This adoption marked a crucial distinction in the governance of the United States: the transition from the Continental Congress to the "United States in Congress Assembled" (USCA). These two entities, while often conflated, were legally and structurally different.

The Continental Congress, which had existed since 1774, was an ad hoc assembly convened to address the colonies’ grievances with Britain. It operated without a formalized legal framework and derived its authority primarily from necessity and consent. The USCA, on the other hand, was a legal entity created by the Articles of Confederation. Unlike its predecessor, it operated under a defined constitutional framework, granting it formal legitimacy as the first national government of the United States. [7]

The common use of “Continental Congress” to describe the USCA is a historical inaccuracy stemming from the continuity of many members and practices between the two bodies. However, the legal transition on March 1, 1781, marked the official end of the Continental Congress and the establishment of a new government under the Articles of Confederation. [8]

Establishing the United States in Congress Assembled

To ensure a smooth transition, Congress set March 1, 1781, as the official date for implementing the Articles and forming the new government. On that day, the USCA convened for the first time, and on March 2, 1781, the newly established governing body held its inaugural session. [9]

Significance of the Articles of Confederation

The adoption of the Articles of Confederation represented a significant milestone in American history, as it established the third iteration of the American Republic. The USCA would govern the United States until March 1789, when the Constitution was adopted. The Articles resolved longstanding disputes over western territories by placing them under federal control, ensuring equitable benefit to all states.

Article V of the Articles allowed for the annual appointment of state delegates to Congress and granted state legislatures the authority to recall them at any time. [10] This provision reinforced the balance of power between state and national authorities, a hallmark of the confederal system.

The USCA oversaw key developments during its tenure, including the negotiation of the Treaty of Paris (1783), which ended the Revolutionary War, and the passage of the Northwest Ordinance (1787), which established the framework for western expansion and statehood. The journals of the USCA detail the legislative and executive actions of this government, providing valuable insights into the evolution of the American Republic.

Conclusion

The ratification of the Articles of Confederation and the establishment of the USCA marked a critical transition in American governance. It formalized the union of the states under a defined constitutional framework and resolved contentious issues surrounding territorial disputes. While the Continental Congress and USCA are often mistakenly conflated, their legal and structural differences highlight the evolving nature of the United States' early governance.

The events of March 1, 1781, represent the culmination of years of negotiation and compromise, resulting in the creation of a new government that would guide the nation through its formative years and set the stage for the Constitution that would follow.

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Footnotes

[1] Journals of the Continental Congress, November 15, 1777.
[2] Merrill Jensen, The Articles of Confederation: An Interpretation of the Social-Constitutional History of the American Revolution 1774–1781 (University of Wisconsin Press, 1940).
[3] Ibid.
[4] Act of Maryland, January 30, 1781. Maryland State Archives.
[5] Journals of the Continental Congress, February 20, 1781.
[6] Daniel Carroll to Charles Carroll of Carrollton, February 21, 1781. Manuscript, Maryland Historical Society.
[7] Articles of Confederation, Article V, 1777.
[8] John E. Ferling, A Leap in the Dark: The Struggle to Create the American Republic (Oxford University Press, 2003).
[9] Journals of the United States in Congress Assembled, March 1–2, 1781.
[10] Articles of Confederation, Article V, 1777.

 

First USCA: March 2, 1781
Samuel Huntington,  USCA President

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1781

March 1781

March 1, 1781 (Thursday):

• New York’s Cession of Western Land Claims: Congress receives New York’s formal cession of its western land claims. This was a significant step in addressing the contentious issue of state claims to western territories, which had delayed the ratification of the Articles of Confederation.
• Maryland Delegates Sign the Articles of Confederation: Maryland, the final state to ratify the Articles, formally signs the document, marking the completion of the Confederation. This ended years of debate and negotiation over the structure of the new government.
• Celebration of the Confederation’s Completion: The ratification of the Articles was celebrated as a major achievement, officially bringing all 13 states into a union under a central government, albeit with limited powers.

March 2, 1781 (Friday):

• First Session of the United States in Congress Assembled (USCA): Congress convenes its first session under the newly ratified Articles of Confederation. Samuel Huntington continues to serve as President of Congress.
• Debates on Representation Rules: Congress begins debating the rules for state representation in the new Confederation Congress. This involved questions about how voting would be structured and how to balance the interests of large and small states.
• Committee to Revise the Rules of Congress: A committee is appointed to revise the rules under which Congress would operate, now that it was functioning under the Articles of Confederation.

March 3, 1781 (Saturday):

• Removal of the Convention Army Prisoners: Congress orders the removal of the "Convention Army" (British and German troops captured at Saratoga in 1777) from Virginia. This was part of efforts to relocate prisoners of war to safer and more secure locations.

March 6, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Plan for Executing Congressional Acts: Congress orders the preparation of a comprehensive plan for “carrying into execution” all acts and resolutions passed by Congress. This directive sought to ensure that the new government under the Articles of Confederation had the administrative capacity to implement its decisions effectively.

March 7, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Depreciation Allowances: Congress orders depreciation allowances for staff department officers. This move was aimed at addressing the financial strain caused by rampant inflation and the declining value of Continental currency, which affected the salaries and morale of government officials and military officers.

March 9, 1781 (Friday):

• Commendation for Victory at the Battle of Cowpens: Congress commends the Continental Army troops for their victory at the Battle of Cowpens in South Carolina on January 17, 1781. This decisive American victory, led by General Daniel Morgan, was a turning point in the southern campaign of the Revolutionary War.

March 10-14, 1781:

• Debates on Continental Finances: Congress holds debates on the dire state of Continental finances, trying to find solutions to fund the war effort and stabilize the economy. These discussions were driven by the ongoing fiscal crisis caused by inflation, currency depreciation, and the lack of reliable revenue sources.

March 15, 1781 (Thursday):

• Connecticut Act on Continental Imposts: Congress receives an act from Connecticut authorizing Congress to levy imposts (taxes on imports) for a limited time. This was part of broader efforts to give Congress the authority to raise revenue directly, rather than relying solely on state contributions.

March 16, 1781 (Friday):

• Continental Bills as Legal Tender: Congress urges the states to pass laws making Continental bills legal tender. This was an attempt to ensure that the Continental currency remained in circulation and to combat the refusal of businesses and individuals to accept the increasingly devalued paper money.
• Appeals to Meet Fiscal Quotas: Congress appeals to the states to meet their fiscal quotas, urging them to provide the necessary funds to support the war effort.

March 19, 1781 (Monday):

• Bills of Exchange on Benjamin Franklin: Congress authorizes the drawing of bills of exchange on Benjamin Franklin in France, using him as a financial intermediary to secure loans and manage the flow of money from America’s European allies.

March 20, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Fast Day Proclamation: Congress adopts a proclamation for a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer. Such proclamations were common during moments of national crisis and were intended to seek divine guidance and bolster public morale during the hardships of the war.
• Robert Morris’s Conditions for Finance Position Accepted: Congress accepts Robert Morris’s conditions for serving as Superintendent of Finance. Morris, a prominent merchant and financier, had demanded significant authority to manage the nation’s finances effectively.

March 22, 1781 (Thursday):

• Connecticut’s Impost Repeal Request: Congress urges Connecticut to repeal the time limitation from its approval of a Continental impost, pushing for broader and longer-lasting authority to levy taxes on imports.

March 24, 1781 (Saturday):

• French Military Support Pledge: Congress receives a pledge of continued French military support but is also warned of the impending end of French financial aid. This highlighted the precarious nature of America’s reliance on its European allies.

March 27, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Ordinance on Prize Capture: Congress adopts an ordinance regulating the capture and condemnation of prizes, outlining the procedures for dealing with enemy ships captured by American privateers.

March 28, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Board of Admiralty Report: Congress receives a report from the Board of Admiralty on the delay of supplies from France, highlighting logistical challenges and the need for better coordination with America’s allies.

March 30, 1781 (Friday):

• Rejection of McDougall’s Terms: Congress rejects the terms set by General Alexander McDougall for accepting the appointment as Secretary of Marine, which included requests for greater authority than Congress was willing to grant.

March 31, 1781 (Saturday):

• Morris’s Authority in Finance Office: Congress rejects a motion to grant Robert Morris removal authority in the Office of Finance, indicating reluctance to give him complete control over personnel decisions.

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April 1781

April 2, 1781 (Monday):

• New York Militia Regiments: Congress authorizes New York to raise two militia regiments at Continental expense to strengthen its defenses, particularly in the face of British military threats in the region.

April 3, 1781 (Tuesday):

• General Burgoyne’s Recall: Congress orders the recall of British General John Burgoyne from his parole, likely in response to his role as a British commander during the Saratoga campaign and his subsequent capture.
• Condemnation of British Treatment of Henry Laurens: Congress prepares a manifesto condemning the British treatment of Henry Laurens, a former president of Congress, who had been captured by the British and imprisoned in the Tower of London.

April 4, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Interest on New Emission Bills: Congress resolves against paying interest on bills of new emission, part of the broader efforts to stabilize the nation’s finances and reduce the fiscal strain caused by currency depreciation.

April 5, 1781 (Thursday):

• Courts of Admiralty Ordinance: Congress adopts an ordinance for establishing courts of admiralty, which would handle legal cases related to maritime law, prize captures, and other naval matters.

April 7, 1781 (Saturday):

• Privateer Regulations: Congress adopts new instructions regulating privateers, ensuring that American privateers acted within the bounds of the law and contributed to the war effort without overstepping their authority.

April 8, 1781 (Sunday):

• Sunday Session on Delmarva Invasion Threat: In a rare Sunday session, Congress convenes to prepare against a threatened British invasion of the Delmarva Peninsula (Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia). This reflects the urgency of military threats on the home front.

April 10, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Limitation on Bills of Exchange: Congress orders a limitation on bills of exchange drawn on American ministers abroad, particularly to manage the financial commitments being made in Europe.

April 11, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Magazines for French Forces: Congress orders the establishment of magazines for provisioning French forces, including efforts to defray a credit of $400,000 that had been drawn for Benjamin Franklin in France to support the war effort.

April 14, 1781 (Saturday):

• Commendation for John Paul Jones: Congress commends John Paul Jones, the naval hero who had led daring raids against British ships, including his famous victory over the Serapis.

April 16, 1781 (Monday):

• Continental Officers and Civil Appointments: Congress reaffirms its prohibition against Continental officers holding civil appointments, seeking to maintain a separation between military and civil responsibilities.

April 18, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Public Debt Report Circulation: Congress orders the circulation of a report on the public debt to the states, urging them to take action to address the growing financial crisis facing the new nation.

April 21, 1781 (Saturday):

• Morris’s Removal Authority Granted: Congress grants Robert Morris the authority to remove personnel in the Office of Finance, giving him greater control over the department he was tasked with managing.

April 23, 1781 (Monday):

• Impost Ordinance Preparation: Congress appoints a committee to prepare an ordinance on the impost, aiming to secure a stable source of revenue by taxing imports, which would help fund the war effort.

April 27, 1781 (Friday):

• Actions on Bills of Exchange: Congress orders immediate steps to prevent the drawing of further bills of exchange on John Jay and Henry Laurens abroad, recognizing the risks posed by overextending the nation’s financial commitments.

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May 1781

May 1, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Failure to Convene Quorum: Congress fails to convene a quorum, delaying its ability to conduct official business. This reflects ongoing challenges with attendance, as delegates struggled to meet their obligations amidst the war.

May 3, 1781 (Thursday):

• Fast Day Observance: Congress observes a national Fast Day, a tradition calling for prayer, fasting, and reflection during times of crisis.

May 4, 1781 (Friday):

• Revised Congressional Rules Adopted: Congress adopts revised rules for its proceedings, likely aimed at improving efficiency and addressing the procedural challenges that had emerged during the war.

May 8, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Inauguration of “Committee of the Week” Reports: Congress receives a report from the “Committee of the Week,” inaugurating a new procedure designed to expedite the consideration of business. This innovation was intended to streamline congressional decision-making.

May 14, 1781 (Monday):

• Robert Morris Accepts Finance Position: Congress receives Robert Morris’s formal acceptance of the position of Superintendent of Finance. Morris would play a crucial role in stabilizing the nation’s finances and organizing funding for the war effort.
• “Ways and Means” Measures Adopted: Congress adopts new “ways and means” measures for defraying the costs of the upcoming campaign, continuing efforts to secure the necessary financial resources for the war.

May 16, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Authorization to Sell the America: Congress authorizes John Jay to sell the America, a 74-gun ship of the line still under construction in Portsmouth, to Spain. This sale was intended to raise funds and build stronger ties with Spain, a key ally.

May 18, 1781 (Friday):

• Authorization for General Wayne to Impress Provisions: Congress authorizes General Anthony Wayne, known for his aggressive military tactics, to impress provisions (forcibly requisition supplies) to support the army in the southern theater of the war.

May 21, 1781 (Monday):

• Proposal for a National Bank: Congress receives a proposal from Robert Morris to establish a national bank. Morris believed that a stable banking system would provide the financial support needed to win the war and stabilize the economy.

May 26, 1781 (Saturday):

• Approval of Plan for a National Bank: Congress approves Morris’s plan for establishing a national bank in the United States. This would lead to the creation of the Bank of North America, the first commercial bank in the U.S., designed to stabilize currency and facilitate government borrowing.

May 28, 1781 (Monday):

• Navigation of the Mississippi River: Congress authorizes John Jay to recede from the demand for free navigation of the Mississippi River, a key issue in negotiations with Spain. This concession was part of efforts to secure Spain’s support for the war.
• Austro-Russian Mediation Offer: Congress considers a report on a conference with the French minister, La Luzerne, regarding an offer by Austria and Russia to mediate peace between the United States and Britain.

May 31, 1781 (Thursday):

• Emergency Call for Troops: Congress issues an emergency call for additional troops to reinforce the southern department, where the British were still conducting aggressive campaigns.

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June 1781

June 1, 1781 (Friday):

• Appeals to States to Meet Quotas: Congress appeals to the states to meet their fiscal and manpower quotas, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining the Continental Army’s strength and securing funding for the war.

June 4, 1781 (Monday):

• Allocation of French Financial Aid: Congress authorizes the Superintendent of Finance, Robert Morris, to allocate financial aid received from France. This aid was essential for continuing the war effort and keeping the Continental Army supplied.

June 7-9, 1781:

• Revised Peace Negotiation Instructions: Congress adopts revised instructions for the minister plenipotentiary, outlining the terms and strategy for negotiating peace with Britain. The instructions were updated to reflect the changing geopolitical situation and America’s relationship with its European allies.
• Rejection of Additional Peace Commissioners: A motion to appoint additional peace commissioners is rejected, reflecting Congress’s desire to keep the negotiations streamlined and focused.

June 11, 1781 (Monday):

• Appointment of Additional Peace Commissioners: Congress resolves to appoint two additional peace commissioners to assist in negotiating the eventual peace treaty with Britain. This decision was likely influenced by the complexity of the negotiations and the need to balance multiple diplomatic priorities.

June 13, 1781 (Wednesday):

• John Jay Appointed Peace Commissioner: John Jay, already serving as the U.S. minister to Spain, is appointed as an additional commissioner to negotiate peace. Jay’s experience and diplomatic skills made him a valuable asset to the negotiating team.
• Letter of Thanks to King of France: Congress adopts a formal letter of thanks to the King of France, Louis XVI, acknowledging France’s continued military and financial support during the war.

June 14, 1781 (Thursday):

• Exchange of John Burgoyne for Henry Laurens: Congress authorizes the exchange of British General John Burgoyne for Henry Laurens, the American diplomat and former president of Congress who had been imprisoned by the British. This exchange was seen as a significant diplomatic victory.
• Appointment of Additional Peace Commissioners: Congress resolves to appoint Benjamin Franklin, Henry Laurens, and Thomas Jefferson to negotiate peace with Britain, assembling a highly skilled diplomatic team to secure a favorable treaty.

June 15, 1781 (Friday):

• Instructions for Minister Plenipotentiary: Congress adopts new instructions for the minister plenipotentiary, updating diplomatic guidelines for negotiations with foreign powers, particularly concerning peace talks and alliances. This was part of Congress’s ongoing efforts to manage relations with European nations.

June 16, 1781 (Saturday):

• Corporal Punishment for Troops: A motion is introduced to increase the severity of corporal punishment for Continental troops, but Congress rejects the proposal. The rejection reflects concerns over maintaining troop morale and discipline in a way that did not overly rely on harsh punishment.

June 18, 1781 (Monday):

• Regulations for the Clothier General's Department: Congress adopts new regulations for the office of the clothier general, the official responsible for supplying clothing to the Continental Army. These reforms were necessary to address the ongoing supply shortages affecting the army.

June 19, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Instructions for Benjamin Franklin: Congress adopts further instructions for Benjamin Franklin, the U.S. minister to France. The instructions likely pertain to ongoing diplomatic and financial negotiations with the French government.
• Franklin's Resignation Request Rejected: Congress rejects Franklin’s request to resign from his diplomatic post. Franklin had previously indicated a desire to retire due to health and age, but his importance to the American diplomatic mission was too great for Congress to accept his resignation.

June 23, 1781 (Saturday):

• Launch of the America: Congress directs Robert Morris, Superintendent of Finance, to expedite the launch of the America, a 74-gun ship of the line under construction for the Continental Navy. This ship was seen as critical to bolstering American naval power.

June 25, 1781 (Monday):

• Appointment of Appeals Judges Rejected: Congress rejects a motion to appoint judges for appeals cases “during good behaviour,” which would have meant lifetime appointments. The decision reflects Congress’s wariness about concentrating too much power in unelected officials during the war.

June 26, 1781 (Tuesday):

• John Paul Jones Appointed to Command the America: Congress appoints the famed naval commander John Paul Jones to take command of the America. Jones was a celebrated hero for his victories at sea, and this command represented a major responsibility for him.
• Francis Dana Appointed Secretary to the Peace Commissioners: Francis Dana is appointed as the Secretary to the Peace Commissioners, further strengthening the team involved in negotiating the peace with Britain.

June 27, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Appointment of Robert Smith as Agent at Havana: Congress appoints Robert Smith as the American agent in Havana, Cuba. His role was likely related to diplomatic and commercial activities, as well as coordinating with Spanish authorities and ensuring aid flowed through Havana.

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July 1781

July 2, 1781 (Monday):

• Approval of 300 Pennsylvania Riflemen for Washington: Congress approves General George Washington’s request for the deployment of 300 riflemen from Pennsylvania. These troops were likely intended to reinforce Washington’s forces as he prepared for major military operations.

July 4, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Independence Day Observance: Congress observes Independence Day, marking the fifth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Celebrations of this day took on special significance in the midst of ongoing military campaigns.

July 6, 1781 (Friday):

• Samuel Huntington’s Resignation: President of Congress Samuel Huntington formally submits his resignation. Huntington had served as president since 1779, but he was stepping down due to health concerns.

July 9, 1781 (Monday):

• Election of Samuel Johnston as President of Congress: Congress elects Samuel Johnston, a delegate from North Carolina, as the new president of Congress. However, Johnston declines the position, citing personal reasons.

Thomas McKean, USCA President

July 10, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Election of Thomas McKean as President of Congress: After Johnston’s declination, Congress elects Thomas McKean of Delaware as the new president of Congress. McKean, a veteran statesman and legal scholar, accepts the position.
• Instructs Thomas Barclay: Congress instructs Thomas Barclay, the U.S. vice-consul to France, on diplomatic and financial matters, particularly concerning the interests of American merchants and shipowners.

July 11, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Authorization for Robert Morris to Negotiate Loans: Congress authorizes Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance, to negotiate loans in Spain and Portugal, aiming to secure much-needed funds for the war effort.

July 12, 1781 (Thursday):

• Revocation of John Adams' Commercial Treaty Commission: Congress revokes John Adams' commission to negotiate a commercial treaty with Britain. The move reflects shifting priorities in light of the ongoing war and changing diplomatic dynamics.

July 16, 1781 (Monday):

• Reinstatement of General Lachlan McIntosh: General Lachlan McIntosh, a prominent officer in the Continental Army who had been sidelined after a personal conflict with another officer, is reinstated to active duty.

July 20, 1781 (Friday):

• Report on New Hampshire Grants Claims: Congress receives a report on the competing claims to the New Hampshire Grants (the area that would become Vermont). These claims involved a territorial dispute between New York and New Hampshire, as well as local settlers seeking to form a separate state.

July 23, 1781 (Monday):

• Relief Fund for South Carolina and Georgia Refugees: Congress endorses the creation of a relief fund for refugees from South Carolina and Georgia, two states that had been particularly hard hit by British occupation and military campaigns.

July 25, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Commendation of General Nathanael Greene: Congress officially commends General Nathanael Greene for his leadership and successes in the southern campaign against British forces. Greene had played a pivotal role in turning the tide in the South.

July 26, 1781 (Thursday):

• Committee to Confer with Washington on Troop Arrangements: Congress appoints a committee to confer with General Washington on troop arrangements for the next year, indicating early planning for the 1782 campaign, as well as managing resources for the remainder of 1781.

July 27, 1781 (Friday):

• Consular Convention Plan from France: Congress receives a plan for a consular convention from the French minister. This would have outlined regulations and guidelines for French consuls operating in the United States, reflecting the deepening alliance between France and America.

July 31, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Superintendent of Finance and War Board to Confer with Washington: Congress orders that Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance, and a member of the Board of War confer with General Washington at his headquarters to discuss military financing and logistics.
• Support for Delaware Indian Youths: Congress approves financial support for three Delaware Indian youths to attend Princeton College, indicating efforts to build relationships with Native American communities through education.

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August 1781

August 1, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Plan for Post Office Reform: Congress orders the preparation of a plan to reform the Post Office, reflecting concerns about the efficiency and financial sustainability of the postal system during wartime.

August 3, 1781 (Friday):

• New York Memorial on New Hampshire Grants: Congress reads a memorial from New York regarding the contentious issue of the New Hampshire Grants, with New York reaffirming its claims over the disputed territory.

August 7, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Request for Connecticut to Revoke Property Seizure Commissions: Congress requests that Connecticut revoke commissions it had issued authorizing the seizure of property on Long Island, likely reflecting concerns about legal overreach and property rights during the war.
• Conference with Vermont Agents on Independence: Congress authorizes a committee to confer with agents from Vermont regarding their claim to independence, despite ongoing disputes over the legitimacy of their credentials.

August 10, 1781 (Friday):

• Election of Robert R. Livingston as Secretary for Foreign Affairs: Congress elects Robert R. Livingston as Secretary for Foreign Affairs, a critical role overseeing diplomatic relations and negotiations during the war.
• Mississippi Navigation Claim Rejected: Congress rejects a motion to cede the U.S. claim to the navigation of the Mississippi River, reflecting the importance of this issue in future negotiations with Spain and western expansion.

August 14, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Authorization for Salt Importation: Congress authorizes the importation of salt, a vital resource for food preservation and the war effort.

August 16, 1781 (Thursday):

• Instructions to John Adams for Dutch Alliance Negotiations: Congress adopts instructions for John Adams, who was negotiating with the Dutch Republic to secure an alliance and financial support for the United States.

August 17, 1781 (Friday):

• Conference with Vermont Agents: Congress instructs its committee to continue conferring with agents from Vermont, despite the ongoing dispute over the legitimacy of Vermont's independence claims and the credentials of its agents.

August 20-21, 1781 (Monday-Tuesday):

• Conditions for Vermont Independence: Congress declares that Vermont’s acceptance of prescribed boundaries would be a condition for Congress’s acceptance of its independence. Vermont's claims were controversial due to territorial disputes with New York.

August 21, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Expansion of Washington’s Prisoner Exchange Authority: Congress enlarges General Washington’s authority to negotiate prisoner exchanges with the British. This was crucial as prisoner exchanges were an important issue for both sides during the war.

August 23, 1781 (Thursday):

• Appeal for State Representation in Congress: Congress exhorts the states to maintain their representation in Congress. Ensuring full representation was essential for quorum and the efficient functioning of the legislative body.

August 24, 1781 (Friday):

• Provision for Civil List: Congress directs the superintendent of finance, Robert Morris, to make provisions for the support of the civil list, referring to salaries for government officials, as financial pressures were mounting.

August 29, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Debate on Retaliation for Col. Isaac Hayne’s Execution: Congress debates whether to retaliate for the British execution of Colonel Isaac Hayne, a controversial act that inflamed American public opinion. Retaliation was considered, but no final decision was made at this time.
• Appointment of Agent of Marine: Congress resolves to appoint an agent of marine, tasked with overseeing naval affairs in the absence of a formal secretary of marine.

August 31, 1781 (Friday):

• Recognition of French Consul to New England: Congress authorizes the recognition of Philippe de L’Etombe as French consul to the New England states, further strengthening diplomatic and commercial ties with France.

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September 1781

September 3, 1781 (Monday):

• John Laurens’ Mission to France: Congress receives a detailed account of John Laurens’ mission to France. Laurens had been instrumental in securing further financial and military aid from France for the American war effort.

September 4, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Investigation of British Treatment of Prisoners: Congress directs General Washington to investigate British treatment of American prisoners. Reports of mistreatment were common, and retaliatory measures were frequently discussed by Congress.

September 5, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Inquiry into General Robert Howe’s Command: Congress orders an inquiry into General Robert Howe’s performance as a commander in the southern department, where American forces had struggled against British troops.

September 7, 1781 (Friday):

• Recognition of French Consul to New England: Congress formally recognizes Philippe Letombe’s appointment as the French consul to New England, continuing the process of establishing formal diplomatic representatives from France in various regions.
• Robert Morris Appointed Agent of Marine: Congress appoints Robert Morris as the agent of marine, consolidating his role as the key financial and administrative figure in charge of the war effort and naval affairs.

September 10, 1781 (Monday):

• Recognition of French Consul to Mid-Atlantic: Congress recognizes Jean Holker’s appointment as the French consul to the mid-Atlantic states, extending formal diplomatic relations with France.
• Militia Call in New Jersey and Pennsylvania: Congress orders a call for militia in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, reflecting the continued need for local forces to defend against British incursions.

September 11, 1781 (Tuesday):

• New Treasury Ordinance Adopted: Congress adopts a new ordinance for managing the treasury, which was an essential part of the ongoing efforts to stabilize and improve the nation’s finances during the war.

September 12, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Navy Placed Under Agent of Marine’s Control: Congress places control of the U.S. navy under the newly appointed agent of marine, Robert Morris. This move centralized authority and was intended to improve the efficiency of naval operations.

September 13, 1781 (Thursday):

• Day of Thanksgiving Set: Congress sets a day of thanksgiving in recognition of the recent successes of the American forces and the ongoing support of France.

September 18, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Orders Retaliation for Isaac Hayne's Execution: Congress orders plans for retaliation against the British for the execution of Colonel Isaac Hayne. The retaliatory measures reflect the emotional response to this event, which had become a symbol of British cruelty.
• Retaliation for Prisoner Mistreatment: Congress also plans retaliation for any further mistreatment of American prisoners by British forces, continuing to monitor and respond to reports of British violations of wartime agreements.

September 19, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Delaware Militia Call: Congress orders a call for Delaware militia to support the ongoing war effort, reinforcing local defense capabilities.
• Appointment of Treasury Officers: New officers are appointed to manage the treasury, part of the broader effort to stabilize finances and improve the efficiency of financial operations.

September 20, 1781 (Thursday):

• Reorganization of the Hospital Department: Congress adopts a reorganization plan for the hospital department, which had been criticized for inefficiencies and shortages. The goal was to improve medical care for Continental troops.

September 21, 1781 (Friday):

• French Minister's Report on Peace Offers: Congress receives a report from the French minister concerning peace overtures and mediation offers from Britain and its allies. These offers were becoming more frequent as the tide of war began to turn in favor of the Americans.

September 24, 1781 (Monday):

• William Irvine Appointed to Fort Pitt Command: Congress appoints General William Irvine to command Fort Pitt, a crucial position for defending the western frontier and coordinating with Native American allies.

September 25, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Memorial from Spanish Agent Rendon: Congress receives a memorial from Spanish agent Francisco Rendon. Spain was a key ally, and such communications were important for maintaining coordination between the two nations.
• Reassurance to Northern Indians: Congress issues a statement of reassurance to northern Native American tribes, reaffirming commitments to peace and cooperation in the midst of British efforts to win over these communities.

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October 1781

October 1, 1781 (Monday):

• Salaries for War and Marine Secretaries Set: Congress sets the salaries for the secretaries of war and marine, reflecting the importance of these two positions in the overall management of the military and naval operations.

October 5, 1781 (Friday):

• Thomas Barclay Appointed Consul to France: Congress appoints Thomas Barclay as consul to France, a key diplomatic position aimed at managing American interests in the country that had become its most important ally.
• Discharge of Delaware and Pennsylvania Militias: Congress orders the discharge of Delaware and Pennsylvania militia forces, likely reflecting changes in the immediate military needs in those regions.

October 11-12, 1781 (Thursday-Friday):

• Debates on Yorktown Campaign Plans: Congress holds debates on plans for the Yorktown campaign, signaling the importance of this decisive moment in the war. The planning involved coordination between American and French forces for what would become the climactic victory of the war.

October 16-17, 1781 (Tuesday-Wednesday):

• Debates on Continental Jurisdiction over Virginia Lands: Congress debates the exercise of Continental jurisdiction over claims within Virginia’s western lands, an issue tied to the broader debate over western expansion and state versus federal authority.

October 19, 1781 (Friday):

• Post Office Department Reform: Congress reforms the Post Office department, aiming to improve communication and efficiency during the war, especially as military campaigns intensified.

October 23, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Thomas McKean’s Resignation Accepted: Congress accepts the resignation of Thomas McKean as president of Congress, though he agrees to remain in office until the new Congress convenes in November.

October 24, 1781 (Wednesday):

• News of the Yorktown Victory Received: Congress receives the momentous news of the American and French victory at Yorktown. The victory effectively sealed the fate of the British war effort in North America. In response, Congress observes “divine service” conducted by Chaplain George Duffield to commemorate the occasion.

October 26, 1781 (Friday):

• Thanksgiving Proclamation Adopted: Congress adopts a proclamation declaring a day of thanksgiving to celebrate the victory at Yorktown.
• Virginia's Motion to Curtail Land Investigations Rejected: Congress rejects a motion from Virginia to curtail a committee investigation of land companies' claims to western lands. This reflects ongoing tensions over western expansion and land ownership.

October 29, 1781 (Monday):

• Thanks to Yorktown Victors: Congress officially thanks the American and French forces for their victory at Yorktown, recognizing the efforts of both nations in bringing about this critical victory.
• Thanks to Nathanael Greene and the Southern Army: Congress also thanks General Nathanael Greene and his southern army for their perseverance and successes against British forces in the southern theater of the war.

October 30, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Gen. Benjamin Lincoln Appointed Secretary at War: Congress appoints General Benjamin Lincoln as the new secretary at war. Lincoln had played a prominent role in the war and was seen as a capable administrator.
• Fiscal Quota for 1782 Set: Congress sets an $8 million fiscal quota for the upcoming year, reflecting the need for continued funding even as the war was drawing to a close.

November 1781

November 1, 1781 (Thursday):

• Endorsement of General Greene's Plans with Cherokee and Chickasaw: Congress endorses General Nathanael Greene’s plans to negotiate with the Cherokee and Chickasaw tribes. These negotiations aimed to secure peace and prevent these Native American nations from siding with the British, which was crucial for maintaining stability in the southern frontier after the Yorktown victory.

November 2, 1781 (Friday):

• Apportioning of 1782 Fiscal Quotas: Congress apportions the fiscal quotas for 1782 among the states, setting the amount each state was responsible for contributing to the war effort. This action was critical as Congress sought to meet financial obligations and fund military operations in the final stages of the war.
• Quartermaster Certificates Authorized as Payment for Quotas: Congress authorizes the acceptance of quartermaster certificates (essentially IOUs issued to suppliers) as payment for the states' fiscal quotas. This was a measure to address liquidity issues, as many states were struggling to raise funds in hard currency.

Second USCA: November 5, 1781 - 
John Hanson USCA President

November 5, 1781 (Monday):

• New Congress Convenes: The newly formed United States in Congress Assembled convenes for the first time under the Articles of Confederation. This marks a transition to a formal confederation government, as the Articles had only been ratified in March.
• Election of John Hanson as President: Congress elects John Hanson of Maryland as the new president of Congress. Though often considered a ceremonial role, the position of president was important for overseeing congressional proceedings and managing correspondence.

November 8, 1781 (Thursday):

• Prosecution of Spies: Congress authorizes the Board of War to prosecute spies under the Articles of War. This action reflects the importance of safeguarding military secrets and protecting the Continental Army from espionage, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict with Britain.

November 9, 1781 (Friday):

• Restriction on Yorktown Prisoners: Congress restricts the travel of British prisoners from the Battle of Yorktown who were out on parole. These parolees, including high-ranking officers, were typically granted limited freedom in exchange for promises not to rejoin the war, but Congress took precautions to prevent abuses of this privilege.

November 12, 1781 (Monday):

• Repeal of Quartermaster Certificates as Payment: Congress repeals the previous resolve allowing quartermaster certificates to be used as payment for state quotas. The reversal suggests concerns about the practicality or misuse of this system in meeting fiscal responsibilities.

November 14, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Call for States to Maintain Representation: Congress urges the states to maintain consistent representation in Congress, which had been a recurring issue throughout the war. Full representation was essential for making decisions, achieving quorums, and managing the war effort effectively.
• Date Set for Connecticut-Pennsylvania Boundary Dispute: Congress schedules a date to hear the long-standing boundary dispute between Connecticut and Pennsylvania over claims to lands in the Wyoming Valley. Such territorial disputes were common in the newly independent states.

November 20, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Augmentation of Secretary of Marine's Authority: Congress increases the authority of the Secretary of Marine, tasked with overseeing naval operations. This action reflects the growing importance of naval affairs and maritime strategy in the war, especially in light of the French alliance.

November 23, 1781 (Friday):

• Recommendation for States to Punish Violations of International Law: Congress recommends that the states pass legislation to punish violations of international law, particularly concerning privateers and the treatment of foreign nationals. This move was likely part of Congress’s effort to maintain good relations with European allies and avoid conflicts stemming from unlawful behavior by American citizens or privateers.

November 28, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Audience with General Washington: Congress holds an audience with General George Washington, who had recently led the American and French forces to victory at Yorktown. Washington’s presence signified his continued leadership and the critical role of the Continental Army as peace negotiations were beginning to take shape.

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December 1781

December 4, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Ordinance on "Captures on Water": Congress adopts an ordinance concerning the capture of enemy vessels at sea. This ordinance outlined rules and procedures for handling naval captures, including the distribution of prizes, which was important for regulating privateering and maintaining order in naval operations.

December 5, 1781 (Wednesday):

• New York Protest Against Vermont Resolves: Congress receives a formal protest from New York against its earlier resolves concerning Vermont’s status. Vermont had declared independence from New York, but Congress’s handling of the situation was controversial, and New York’s opposition reflected ongoing tensions over Vermont’s legitimacy as a separate entity.

December 10, 1781 (Monday):

• Call for States to Complete Troop Quotas: Congress exhorts the states to complete their troop quotas for the Continental Army. Even though major victories like Yorktown had been achieved, Congress still needed sufficient manpower to maintain military readiness and pressure on British forces.

December 11, 1781 (Tuesday):

• Call for Census of White Inhabitants: Congress calls on the states to conduct a census of "the white inhabitants thereof." This census would provide vital information for apportioning taxes and representation, as well as assessing the population size and distribution across the newly formed nation.

December 13, 1781 (Thursday):

• Day of Thanksgiving Observed: Congress observes a national day of thanksgiving, celebrating the victory at Yorktown and the ongoing alliance with France. Such proclamations were intended to unify the nation and acknowledge divine support for the American cause.

December 17, 1781 (Monday):

• Appeal to States for Men and Money: Congress issues an appeal to the states for both manpower and financial contributions, underlining the continued need for resources to sustain the war effort and secure the gains made through recent military victories.

December 19, 1781 (Wednesday):

• Supernumerary Generals on Half Pay: Congress orders that supernumerary (extra) generals be placed on half pay, reflecting an effort to reduce military expenses as the war wound down. This move was part of a broader attempt to rationalize the structure and costs of the Continental Army.

December 20, 1781 (Thursday):

• Exchange of Governor Thomas Burke Authorized: Congress authorizes the exchange of Governor Thomas Burke of North Carolina, who had been captured by the British. The exchange of high-ranking prisoners was a common practice, and Burke’s release was important for his state.

December 31, 1781 (Monday):

• Incorporation of the Bank of North America: Congress adopts an ordinance formally incorporating the Bank of North America. Established by Robert Morris, the Superintendent of Finance, this institution was the first national bank of the United States, designed to stabilize the nation's finances, facilitate loans, and manage public credit.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1782

January 1782

January 2, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Exhorts States to Suppress Trade with the Enemy: Congress urges the states to crack down on illicit trade with British forces and loyalists, which was a significant issue as certain regions engaged in commerce with the enemy despite the ongoing war. This measure sought to enforce unity and prevent any undermining of the Continental cause.

January 3, 1782 (Thursday):

• Reforms Medical Department: Congress enacts reforms to improve the management and efficiency of the Continental Army's medical department, including the system for treating the wounded and preventing disease among the troops. This action was in response to longstanding challenges in providing adequate medical care during the war.

January 8, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Amends Ordinance on Captures on Water: Congress revises regulations governing the capture of enemy vessels at sea, refining procedures related to naval operations and the division of prizes taken from British ships.
• Rejects Motion to Enlarge Peace Ultimata: A motion to expand the terms Congress was willing to accept in peace negotiations was rejected, signaling that Congress remained focused on key issues like independence and territorial boundaries without broadening the scope of demands.

January 9, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Authorizes Negotiation of Consular Convention with France: Congress approves the negotiation of a consular convention with France, aiming to formalize diplomatic relations and regulate trade and legal matters between the two nations.

January 10, 1782 (Thursday):

• Reforms Inspector General's Department: Congress introduces reforms to the Inspector General's Department, which was responsible for maintaining discipline and enforcing regulations within the Continental Army. These reforms likely aimed to streamline operations and enhance military efficiency.

January 17, 1782 (Thursday):

• Investigates Silas Deane's Letters: Congress launches an investigation into letters written by Silas Deane, a former American diplomat, which appeared to advocate conciliation with Britain. Deane’s correspondence had caused controversy, as some viewed it as sympathetic to British interests.

January 22, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Instructs Peace Commissioners on Fisheries and Boundaries: Congress instructs American peace commissioners, including John Jay and Benjamin Franklin, to communicate informal demands on fisheries and boundaries during negotiations with Britain. These issues were critical in defining U.S. territorial and economic rights after the war.

January 25, 1782 (Friday):

• Amends Consular Convention: Congress revises the terms of the consular convention under negotiation with France, refining the diplomatic agreement intended to manage commercial and legal affairs between the two nations.

January 28, 1782 (Monday):

• Enlarges Duties of Secretary Charles Thomson: To relieve the president of Congress from an overwhelming workload, Congress expands the responsibilities of Charles Thomson, the long-serving secretary, enabling him to handle more administrative tasks.

January 29, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Advised of Diminution of French Aid: Congress receives notice that French financial aid would be reduced. This development added to the ongoing financial strain on the United States, which was heavily reliant on French support to continue the war effort.

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February 1782

February 1, 1782 (Friday):

• Instructs Benjamin Franklin on Repayment of Dutch Loan: Congress instructs Benjamin Franklin, serving as a diplomat in France, on the repayment of a loan the United States had obtained from the Dutch through French intermediaries.

February 8, 1782 (Friday):

• Authorizes Franklin to Borrow Additional 12 Million Livres from France: Congress authorizes Franklin to negotiate an additional loan of 12 million livres from France to help finance the war and address the fiscal shortfall caused by the reduction in direct aid.

February 11, 1782 (Monday):

• Authorizes Export of Tobacco by Yorktown "Capitulants": Congress allows tobacco exports from Yorktown prisoners of war ("capitulants") under controlled conditions. This decision addressed economic issues related to the southern colonies and the post-surrender handling of British prisoners.
• Rejects Appeal to Allow States to Clothe Their Own Continental Troops: A proposal to allow individual states to provide clothing for their troops instead of relying on centralized provisioning was rejected, maintaining uniformity in supply operations.

February 18, 1782 (Monday):

• Authorizes Washington to Negotiate General Prisoner Exchange: Congress empowers General Washington to negotiate a general exchange of prisoners with the British. The fair treatment and return of prisoners had become a significant issue during the war, as both sides had suffered from delays in exchanges.

February 20, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Seeks Authorization to Apportion War Expenses Outside Articles of Confederation Quota Formula: Congress seeks authority to apportion war expenses in a manner that deviates from the rigid formula established by the Articles of Confederation, likely to address disparities in states' ability to contribute financially.

February 21, 1782 (Thursday):

• Authorizes Establishment of a Mint: Congress authorizes the creation of a national mint to produce a stable currency for the United States. This was an important step toward financial independence and stability.

February 22, 1782 (Friday):

• Reorganizes Department of Foreign Affairs: Congress reorganizes the Department of Foreign Affairs to improve the management of U.S. diplomacy and international relations, a sign of the increasing complexity of America's role on the global stage.

February 23, 1782 (Saturday):

• Authorizes Exchange of Cornwallis for Henry Laurens: Congress authorizes the exchange of British General Lord Cornwallis for Henry Laurens, the former American president of Congress who had been captured and held by the British. This was a significant development in prisoner exchanges following Cornwallis's surrender at Yorktown.

February 26, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Amends Ordinance on Captures on Water: Congress once again refines regulations regarding naval captures, reflecting ongoing adjustments to how privateers and naval forces were authorized to seize enemy vessels.

February 27, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Plan for Settlement of State Accounts: Congress adopts a plan to settle financial accounts with the states, addressing issues related to war expenses, contributions, and reimbursements. This was part of a broader effort to bring financial order to the war effort.

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March 1782

March 1, 1782 (Friday):

• Sets Conditions for Recognizing Vermont Independence: Congress outlines specific conditions under which Vermont could be recognized as an independent state, reflecting ongoing tensions over Vermont's break from New York and other territorial disputes.

March 7, 1782 (Thursday):

• Revises Rules of Court of Appeals: Congress revises the rules governing the Court of Appeals in cases of admiralty and prize claims, ensuring a fair and consistent legal framework for dealing with captured vessels and goods.

March 11, 1782 (Monday):

• Orders Settlement of Bonhomme Richard Prize Claims: Congress orders the settlement of claims related to the Bonhomme Richard, the famous ship commanded by John Paul Jones. This was an important step in resolving financial matters related to naval victories.
• Refers Indian Petition to New York: Congress refers a petition from Native American tribes regarding territorial disputes to New York, reflecting the complexity of land issues involving Native populations.

March 15, 1782 (Friday):

• Drafts Fiscal Appeal to the States: Congress drafts a new appeal to the states for financial contributions, addressing the persistent issue of underfunding and the need to meet military and other national expenses.

March 19, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Adopts Fast Day Proclamation: Congress adopts a proclamation for a day of fasting, prayer, and reflection, a common practice during the war to unite the nation in solemn observance and to seek divine favor.

March 21, 1782 (Thursday):

• Holds Audience with General Washington: Congress meets with General George Washington to discuss the state of the war and military strategy, reaffirming Washington's leadership as the war approached its final stages.

March 27, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Orders Study of Continental Army Staffing Needs: Congress orders a study to assess the staffing needs of the Continental Army, a reflection of the desire to streamline the military and reduce unnecessary expenditures as the war drew closer to its end.

March 30, 1782 (Saturday):

• Adopts Measures to Curtail Prisoner-of-War Escapes: Congress adopts measures aimed at preventing the escape of prisoners of war, likely in response to security concerns related to British POWs held by American forces.

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April 1782

April 1, 1782 (Monday):

• Rejects Fiscal Quota Reduction Appeal: Congress rejects an appeal from states seeking to reduce their fiscal quotas, reinforcing the need for all states to meet their financial obligations to fund the war effort.

April 3-4, 1782:

• Debates Vermont's Compliance with Independent Statehood Conditions: Congress engages in a debate over whether Vermont had met the conditions set for its recognition as an independent state, continuing the complicated discussions over Vermont’s political status.

April 8, 1782 (Monday):

• Revises Paymaster Regulations: Congress revises the regulations governing the paymaster's office to improve the management of troop payments, an essential issue for maintaining morale in the Continental Army.

April 9, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Orders Submission of Comprehensive Army Returns: Congress orders the submission of comprehensive reports on troop numbers, equipment, and readiness from all Continental Army units, ensuring accurate records for military planning.

April 15, 1782 (Monday):

• Elects Daniel Carroll as Chairman: Due to the illness of President John Hanson, Congress elects Daniel Carroll to serve as "chairman" of congressional proceedings, effectively acting in Hanson's place until his recovery.
• Rejects Motion to Elect Vice-President: Congress rejects a motion to create a new position of vice-president to assume the duties of the president during times of disability.

April 18, 1782 (Thursday):

• Rejects Motion to Disclose Conflicts of Interest on Land Claim Issues: Congress votes down a motion that would have required delegates to disclose conflicts of interest in matters involving land claims, reflecting the contentious and politically charged nature of territorial disputes.

April 20, 1782 (Saturday):

• Debates Vermont's Compliance with Independent Statehood Conditions: The debate over Vermont’s status continues, as Congress deliberates whether Vermont has fully met the requirements for recognition as a separate state.

April 23, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Recommends Pensions for Disabled Troops: Congress recommends that pensions be provided to soldiers who were disabled in the war, recognizing the sacrifices made by those who could no longer serve.
• Orders Reduction of Supernumerary Officers: Congress orders a reduction in the number of supernumerary officers (those in excess of need) in an effort to streamline the military and reduce costs.

April 29, 1782 (Monday):

• Endorses Washington's Proposals for Retaliation Against Death of Joshua Huddy: Congress approves General Washington's plan to retaliate against the British for the execution of Captain Joshua Huddy, a New Jersey militia officer hanged by British forces. This retaliation was intended as a deterrent against further British atrocities.

April 30, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Endorses John Jay's Conduct of Negotiations with Madrid: Congress expresses its approval of John Jay's handling of negotiations with the Spanish court in Madrid, particularly regarding territorial and diplomatic issues.

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May 1782

May 1, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Warns States of British Attempts to Divide Allies with Separate Peace Proposals: Congress alerts the states to British attempts to divide the United States and its allies by offering separate peace agreements. This warning underscored the need for unity in the ongoing negotiations and the importance of the Franco-American alliance.
• Debates Western Land Cessions and Delegates' Conflicts of Interest: Congress continues to debate western land cessions, as well as whether delegates should be required to disclose potential conflicts of interest when discussing land claims.

May 4, 1782 (Saturday):

• Orders Measures for Protection of American Shipping: Congress implements measures to protect American shipping from British naval harassment, particularly through the use of privateers and the protection of trade routes.

May 8, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Opposes Sending William Carmichael to Portugal: Congress rejects the proposal to send William Carmichael, the U.S. diplomat in Spain, to the court of Portugal, likely due to concerns over diplomatic relations and Carmichael's effectiveness in Madrid.

May 13, 1782 (Monday):

• Audience with French Minister to Celebrate Birth of a Dauphin: Congress holds an audience with the French minister to celebrate the birth of a dauphin, the heir to the French throne. This occasion was symbolic of the continued strength of the Franco-American alliance.

May 14, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Denies Sir Guy Carleton's Emissary a Passport to Philadelphia: Congress denies a request from Sir Guy Carleton, the British commander in North America, for an emissary to travel to Philadelphia. This move reflects the tensions surrounding peace negotiations and concerns over British intentions.

May 21, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Authorizes States to Curb Trade with the Enemy: Congress authorizes state authorities to take action against trade with the British, reinforcing the earlier exhortation to suppress illegal trade that undermined the war effort.

May 22, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Sends Delegations to States to Solicit Compliance with Requisitions: Congress sends delegations to various states to press for compliance with requisitions, particularly concerning fiscal contributions and troop quotas. This action highlights the difficulties Congress faced in securing cooperation from the states.

May 24, 1782 (Friday):

• Reviews Report on U.S. Credit Abroad: Congress reviews a report from the superintendent of finance, Robert Morris, on the status of U.S. credit in Europe. Maintaining international credit was crucial for securing loans and supplies to continue the war.

May 27, 1782 (Monday):

• Exhorts States to Maintain Representation in Congress: Congress again urges the states to ensure consistent representation, as the lack of full participation by state delegates often hampered the decision-making process.
• Instructs Francis Dana to Delay Presenting Credentials to Russia: Congress instructs Francis Dana, the U.S. minister to Russia, to delay presenting his diplomatic credentials, likely reflecting uncertainty over Russia’s role in the ongoing peace negotiations.

May 28, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Receives French Report on Peace Overtures: Congress receives a report from its French allies regarding ongoing peace overtures from Britain. The French were heavily involved in shaping the terms of any potential peace agreement.

May 31, 1782 (Friday):

• Reaffirms Opposition to Separate Peace Negotiations: Congress reiterates its opposition to any separate peace negotiations with Britain that would exclude its European allies, particularly France. This stance reinforced the need for unity among the allied powers in order to secure favorable terms in the peace process.

June 1782

June 5, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Orders Study of Proposal to Enlist German Prisoners of War: Congress directs a study to explore the possibility of enlisting German prisoners of war into the Continental Army. This move likely sought to address manpower shortages by utilizing prisoners who might be persuaded to switch sides and fight for the American cause.

June 7, 1782 (Friday):

• Rescinds Work-Release Program for British Prisoners of War: Congress reverses an earlier decision that allowed British prisoners of war to work while in captivity, signaling a shift in the treatment of prisoners as the war approached its conclusion.

June 12, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Revises Regulations for Naval Courts-Martial: Congress adopts revisions to the procedures governing naval courts-martial, ensuring greater clarity and consistency in handling military justice for Continental Navy personnel.

June 14, 1782 (Friday):

• Endorses Proposals for the Return of South Carolina Exiles: Congress supports proposals that would allow exiled citizens of South Carolina, many of whom had fled due to British occupation, to return home. This endorsement was part of efforts to restore stability to the southern states as British forces retreated.

June 17, 1782 (Monday):

• Calls for Biannual Inspection of Executive Departments: To ensure accountability and efficiency, Congress orders biannual inspections of the operation of the executive departments, signaling a commitment to regular oversight of governmental functions.

June 20, 1782 (Thursday):

• Adopts Great Seal for the United States in Congress Assembled: Congress formally adopts the design for the Great Seal of the United States, an important symbol of the nation's sovereignty and authority.

June 21, 1782 (Friday):

• Exhorts States to Curb Trade with the Enemy: Continuing efforts to prevent illicit trade with British forces, Congress urges the states to strictly enforce restrictions on commerce with the enemy, which threatened the unity and strength of the war effort.

June 24-27, 1782:

• Debates Proposals for Resolving the Connecticut-Pennsylvania Boundary Dispute: Congress engages in extended discussions on how to settle the long-standing territorial dispute between Connecticut and Pennsylvania over land in the Wyoming Valley. The issue had sparked violent confrontations between settlers from both states.

June 27, 1782 (Thursday):

• Receives Report from Congressional Delegation to the Southern States: Congress receives a report from its delegation that had visited the southern states to assess the situation there, particularly the recovery efforts after the British withdrawal from the region.

June 28, 1782 (Friday):

• Endorses General Nathanael Greene’s Rejection of Truce Proposal in South Carolina: Congress supports General Greene's decision to reject a British truce proposal in South Carolina, reinforcing the Continental Army's commitment to pursuing military victory rather than accepting partial peace terms.

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July 1782

July 2, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Endorses Superintendent of Finance's Recommendation Against Appointing Consuls in the West Indies: Congress agrees with Robert Morris, the superintendent of finance, that appointing consuls in the West Indies was unnecessary at this time. This decision likely reflected concerns about financial strain and the complexity of international trade relations during the war.

July 3, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Complains About Spanish Release of British Prisoners of War: Congress expresses dissatisfaction with Spain’s decision to release British prisoners of war, likely seeing this as an action that undermined the overall war effort against Britain.

July 10, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Ordinance Regulating Distribution of Prizes: Congress passes an ordinance that sets rules for distributing the spoils of captured enemy ships (prizes). This regulation provided a legal framework for how privateers and naval forces could share the profits of their captures.

July 11, 1782 (Thursday):

• Places Moratorium on Promotion or Appointment of Continental Officers: In an effort to manage military personnel more effectively and reduce expenses, Congress imposes a temporary halt on promoting or appointing new officers in the Continental Army.

July 17, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Ordinance to Prevent Illicit Trade with the Enemy: To further curb illegal trade with the British, Congress passes a new ordinance designed to crack down on such activities, signaling continued concern over the economic war being waged alongside military operations.

July 18, 1782 (Thursday):

• Receives Report from Congressional Delegation to the Northern States: Congress receives a report from its delegation that had traveled to the northern states to assess the political and military situation, as well as economic conditions in the region.
• Orders Measures to Stop Mail Robberies: Congress directs new measures to address the problem of mail robberies, which threatened the security of communication and supply lines between different parts of the country.

July 23, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Revises Hospital Department Regulations: Congress revises the regulations governing the hospital department, aiming to improve medical care and efficiency in the treatment of wounded and ill soldiers.

July 31, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Debates Recommendation for Acceptance of Western Land Cessions to Restore Public Credit: Congress discusses a recommendation to accept land cessions from states with western claims, such as Virginia, as a way to restore public credit and resolve disputes over territorial expansion. This was seen as a key step in stabilizing the nation’s finances and reducing inter-state tensions.

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August 1782

August 1, 1782 (Thursday):

• Reorganizes Adjutant General's Department: Congress approves the reorganization of the Adjutant General's Department, likely to improve the efficiency of military administration and ensure better coordination within the Continental Army.

August 5, 1782 (Monday):

• Receives Robert Morris' Funding Plan: Congress receives a comprehensive funding plan from Robert Morris, the superintendent of finance. Morris’s plan was crucial for addressing the financial challenges facing the United States as it continued the war and prepared for post-war economic realities.

August 6, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Revises John Jay's Diplomatic Instructions: Congress makes revisions to the instructions given to John Jay, one of the peace commissioners, as he engaged in delicate negotiations with Spain and other European powers regarding post-war territorial and economic issues.

August 7, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Reorganizes Continental Army: Congress enacts a reorganization of the Continental Army, likely aimed at streamlining operations and preparing for potential peace, while also ensuring readiness in case the war continued.

August 9, 1782 (Friday):

• Receives British Commissioners' Announcement of Peace Negotiations in Paris: Congress is informed that formal peace negotiations between the British and American commissioners have begun in Paris. This was a major development signaling that the end of the war could be near.

August 12, 1782 (Monday):

• Authorizes Washington to Negotiate Prisoner Exchange: Congress empowers General George Washington to negotiate the exchange of prisoners with the British, continuing efforts to ensure the fair treatment and repatriation of soldiers held by both sides.

August 14, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Suspends Inquiry into General Gates' Conduct at Camden: Congress decides to halt the inquiry into General Horatio Gates' controversial conduct at the Battle of Camden, South Carolina, in 1780, which had been a significant defeat for the Continental forces.

August 15, 1782 (Thursday):

• Rejects Move to Repeal Peace Commissioners' Instructions to Be Guided by French Court: A motion to repeal the instructions directing American peace commissioners to be guided by the French court in negotiations with Britain is rejected, reaffirming the importance of the Franco-American alliance in securing favorable peace terms.

August 16-20, 1782:

• Debates Massachusetts' Petition to Include Fisheries Claim in Peace Ultimata: Congress debates Massachusetts' demand that American fishing rights in the North Atlantic be included as a key issue in the peace negotiations. Fisheries were critical to the economy of New England, and ensuring access to them was a major concern for the region’s representatives.

August 23, 1782 (Friday):

• Appoints Judges to Hear Connecticut-Pennsylvania Boundary Dispute: Congress appoints a panel of judges to adjudicate the long-running boundary dispute between Connecticut and Pennsylvania, showing a commitment to resolving inter-state conflicts peacefully.

August 27, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Debates Kentucky Statehood Petition: Congress discusses a petition from settlers in the western part of Virginia (modern-day Kentucky) seeking statehood. The debate highlights the ongoing challenges of managing western expansion and the push for new states.

August 29, 1782 (Thursday):

• Orders Purchase of Ship for Packet Service to Europe: Congress authorizes the purchase of a ship to be used for transatlantic communications, ensuring faster and more reliable mail service between the United States and its diplomatic representatives in Europe.

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September 1782

September 3, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Orders Resumption of Postal Service to the Carolinas and Georgia: Congress orders the resumption of postal services to the Carolinas and Georgia, restoring communication with these southern states that had been disrupted by British occupation and military actions.
• Presents Ship America to France: In a symbolic gesture of thanks and friendship, Congress presents the ship America to the French government, recognizing France’s critical support during the war.

September 4, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Sets Fiscal Quota for Immediate Payment of Public Debt Interest: Congress establishes a fiscal quota for the states, specifically to pay the interest on the national debt. This was part of ongoing efforts to stabilize the U.S. economy and honor financial commitments.

September 6, 1782 (Friday):

• Debates Proposal to Appeal to the States to Cede Western Lands: Congress debates a proposal calling on states with claims to western lands to cede those claims to the federal government, a crucial issue in managing national unity and public finance.

September 9, 1782 (Monday):

• Suspends Issuance of Bills of Exchange for Loan Office Certificate Interest: Congress suspends the issuance of bills of exchange to pay interest on loan office certificates, reflecting difficulties in managing the nation’s complex financial obligations.
• Instructs Washington on Prisoner Cartel: Congress provides General Washington with updated instructions regarding the ongoing exchange of prisoners with the British.

September 10, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Sets State Fiscal Quotas: Congress finalizes the fiscal quotas that each state must meet, continuing the delicate balancing act of managing state contributions to the national war effort.

September 12, 1782 (Thursday):

• Endorses Robert Aitken's Proposal to Print an American Edition of the Bible: Congress supports printer Robert Aitken’s proposal to produce the first American edition of the Bible. This move was significant both for religious freedom and for reducing dependence on British-printed Bibles.

September 14, 1782 (Saturday):

• Authorizes Solicitation of $4 Million in Foreign Loans: Congress authorizes efforts to secure an additional $4 million in loans from foreign allies to continue financing the war and stabilizing the economy.

September 16, 1782 (Monday):

• Commissions Washington to Negotiate Prisoner Exchange: Congress again commissions General Washington to lead negotiations on the exchange of prisoners of war, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment for captives on both sides.

September 17, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Refuses to Accept Henry Laurens' Resignation as Peace Commissioner: Congress rejects peace commissioner Henry Laurens’ offer to resign from his diplomatic post, reflecting their continued confidence in his abilities to negotiate favorable terms with Britain.

September 19-20, 1782:

• Debates Report That Henry Laurens Improperly Petitioned British Parliament While Imprisoned: Congress discusses a report alleging that Henry Laurens improperly petitioned the British Parliament during his imprisonment in London, raising concerns about his conduct while in captivity.

September 24, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Receives Information from Chevalier de La Luzerne on Peace Maneuvers in Europe: Congress receives an important update from French minister Chevalier de La Luzerne regarding the latest diplomatic developments and peace maneuvers in Europe, underscoring the close coordination between the U.S. and France.

September 28, 1782 (Saturday):

• Adopts Plan for Treaty of Amity and Commerce with Sweden: Congress approves a plan to negotiate a treaty of amity and commerce with Sweden, expanding the young nation’s diplomatic and economic relations with European powers.

October 1782

October 1, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Rejects New Jersey Plan to Retain Continental Revenues for Payment of State's Continental Troops: Congress dismisses New Jersey’s proposal to retain funds earmarked for Continental expenses, underscoring the federal government's need for central control over military financing to ensure uniform support across all the states.

October 3, 1782 (Thursday):

• Reassures France on U.S. Commitment to Military Preparedness and No Separate Peace Pledge: Congress reiterates its dedication to military readiness and reinforces its pledge not to seek a separate peace with Britain, reaffirming the strength of the Franco-American alliance during the ongoing peace negotiations.

October 10, 1782 (Thursday):

• Appeals to Rhode Island and Georgia to Adopt Impost Amendment: Congress makes a renewed effort to persuade Rhode Island and Georgia to adopt the proposed impost amendment, which would allow the federal government to collect customs duties to help pay off the national debt.

October 11, 1782 (Friday):

• Sets Day of Thanksgiving and Prayer: Congress designates a national day of thanksgiving and prayer, reflecting a tradition of offering gratitude for progress in the war and divine support during times of hardship.

October 14-15, 1782:

• Debates Promotion of General Officers: Congress discusses the issue of promoting general officers within the Continental Army, which was a sensitive matter as the army adjusted to changing conditions and prepared for peace.

October 16, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Sets Fiscal Quota for 1783; Instructs Washington on Prisoner Exchange Negotiations: Congress establishes the fiscal quotas that the states would need to meet for 1783. Additionally, Washington is instructed on how to proceed with ongoing prisoner exchange negotiations with the British, as humane treatment of prisoners remained a priority for the Continental Army.

October 18, 1782 (Friday):

• Requests Washington to Decide Fate of Wyoming Garrison; Sets State Fiscal Quotas; Adopts Post Office Ordinance: Congress asks General Washington to determine the future of the garrison at Wyoming (in present-day Pennsylvania), a strategic location. Additionally, new fiscal quotas for the states are set, and Congress passes an ordinance regulating the Post Office, further organizing the nation's communications system.

October 23, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Reorganizes Quartermaster Department: Congress undertakes a reorganization of the Quartermaster Department, a key logistical body responsible for supplying the Continental Army. This reorganization was essential for improving efficiency and cutting costs.

October 28, 1782 (Monday):

• Adopts Supplemental Post Office Ordinance; Recommends Suspension of Plans to Execute Charles Asgill: A supplemental ordinance is passed to further refine the Post Office regulations. Congress also advises suspending the execution of British officer Charles Asgill, who had been condemned in retaliation for the killing of Joshua Huddy, a controversial case that had international implications.

October 29, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Accepts New York's Western Land Cession: Congress formally accepts New York’s cession of its western land claims. This was an important development in resolving territorial disputes and moving towards the creation of new states from western lands.

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November 1782

November 1, 1782 (Friday):

• Refers Investigation of Alexander Gillon to Superintendent of Finance: Congress refers the investigation of Alexander Gillon, a naval officer who had been accused of financial mismanagement, to Robert Morris, the superintendent of finance, highlighting the need for accountability in financial matters.

November 2, 1782 (Saturday):

• Committee on Indian Affairs Confers with Catawba Indian Delegation: Congress’s Committee on Indian Affairs holds discussions with a delegation from the Catawba Nation, reflecting ongoing efforts to manage relations with Native American tribes during and after the war.

Third USCA: November 4, 1782 
 Elias Boudinot, USCA President

November 4, 1782 (Monday):

• Convenes New Congress; Elects Elias Boudinot President: A new session of Congress begins, and Elias Boudinot is elected president of the Congress, succeeding John Hanson. Boudinot would oversee important post-war developments.

November 7, 1782 (Thursday):

• Orders Washington to Free Charles Asgill: Following international pressure, particularly from France, Congress orders General Washington to release Charles Asgill, the British officer whose execution had been postponed, resolving a sensitive diplomatic situation.

November 8, 1782 (Friday):

• Requests British Officials to Continue Investigation of Joshua Huddy’s Death: Congress asks British authorities to further investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of American patriot Joshua Huddy, whose killing had sparked outrage and led to the threatened execution of Asgill.

November 12, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Renews Appointment of Thomas Jefferson as Peace Commissioner: Congress reappoints Thomas Jefferson as a commissioner for peace negotiations, reaffirming its confidence in his abilities to help secure a favorable treaty with Britain.

November 14, 1782 (Thursday):

• Debates Report on Vermont’s Seizure of New York Citizens: Congress debates a report concerning Vermont’s contentious actions in seizing citizens of New York, part of an ongoing border dispute between the two regions.

November 18, 1782 (Monday):

• Appoints Thomas Barclay Commissioner to Settle Accounts of Continental Officials Abroad: Congress assigns Thomas Barclay the task of settling the financial accounts of U.S. officials stationed in Europe, a crucial step in managing the nation’s foreign expenditures and obligations.

November 19, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Adopts New Rules for Reorganization of Continental Army: Congress approves new rules to guide the reorganization of the Continental Army, laying the groundwork for the army's transition to peacetime and addressing the need to reduce its size.

November 20, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Debates Pennsylvania Petitions on Providing for Public Creditors: Congress discusses petitions from Pennsylvania regarding how the state should handle its obligations to public creditors, reflecting broader financial challenges facing the country in paying off war debts.

November 21, 1782 (Thursday):

• Debates Salaries of Officials Abroad: Congress holds a debate on how much to pay American diplomats and officials stationed abroad, recognizing the importance of their roles while balancing the need for fiscal restraint.

November 25-26, 1782:

• Debates Propriety of Exchanging Henry Laurens for Earl Cornwallis: Congress debates whether it would be appropriate to exchange the captured American diplomat Henry Laurens for British General Lord Cornwallis, who had been captured after the Siege of Yorktown.

November 27, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Orders Seizure of Two Vermonters Reported to Be in Correspondence with the Enemy: Congress orders the arrest of two Vermonters who were suspected of engaging in treasonous correspondence with the British, highlighting the ongoing tensions in Vermont’s relations with both New York and the Continental Congress.

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December 1782

December 3, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Accepts Resignation of Secretary for Foreign Affairs: Congress accepts the resignation of Robert R. Livingston, the secretary for foreign affairs. Livingston had played a key role in managing U.S. diplomacy during the war.

December 4, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Grants John Paul Jones’ Request to Serve with French Navy: Congress approves a request from the famous naval commander John Paul Jones to serve with the French navy, continuing his military career in Europe.

December 5, 1782 (Thursday):

• Censures Vermont Officials; Appoints Appeals Court Judges: Congress formally censures officials in Vermont for their unauthorized actions and appoints judges to the appeals court, further addressing the ongoing tensions surrounding Vermont’s quest for statehood and its disputes with neighboring states.

December 6, 1782 (Friday):

• Directs Superintendent of Finance to Exhort States to Comply with Fiscal Quotas; Appoints Deputation to Rhode Island to Secure Ratification of Impost Amendment: Congress instructs Robert Morris to press the states to meet their fiscal quotas and sends a deputation to Rhode Island in an attempt to secure its ratification of the proposed impost amendment, which remained critical to resolving the nation’s financial problems.

December 11, 1782 (Wednesday):

• Authorizes Hiring Out of Prisoners of War: In an effort to manage the economic burden of holding prisoners, Congress authorizes the hiring out of prisoners of war, allowing them to work under controlled conditions.

December 12, 1782 (Thursday):

• Receives Rhode Island Explanation of Rejection of Impost Amendment: Congress receives an official explanation from Rhode Island detailing its reasons for rejecting the impost amendment, which had been a critical financial reform aimed at giving Congress more direct control over revenue.

December 13, 1782 (Friday):

• David Howell Acknowledges Authors of Published Letter Violating Congressional Secrecy Rules: David Howell, a delegate from Rhode Island, admits to authoring a letter that had violated congressional secrecy rules, revealing the tension between maintaining transparency and protecting sensitive deliberations.

December 16, 1782 (Monday):

• Adopts Response to Rhode Island’s Rejection of Impost Amendment: In response to Rhode Island’s rejection of the impost amendment, Congress adopts a formal reply, further urging the state to reconsider its position for the sake of national fiscal stability.

December 17, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Reaffirms Determination to Send Deputation to Rhode Island: Congress confirms its decision to send a deputation to Rhode Island, continuing its efforts to secure the state's crucial support for the impost amendment.

December 21, 1782 (Saturday):

• Postpones Resignation of Secretary for Foreign Affairs; Grants Secretary Leave of Absence: While Livingston’s resignation as secretary for foreign affairs was accepted earlier, Congress postpones the finalization of his resignation and grants him a temporary leave of absence.

December 24, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Amends Post Office Ordinance to Extend Franking Privilege: Congress passes an amendment to the Post Office ordinance, extending the franking privilege, which allowed certain officials to send mail free of charge.

December 25-26, 1782:

• Observes Christmas: Congress pauses its proceedings to observe Christmas, reflecting the Christian heritage and traditions of the time.

December 31, 1782 (Tuesday):

• Instructs Peace Commissioners to Seek Commercial Reciprocity with Britain: As the year comes to a close, Congress instructs its peace commissioners to prioritize the goal of achieving commercial reciprocity with Britain in the ongoing peace negotiations, a key objective for the post-war economic relationship between the two nations.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1783

January 1783

January 1 & 2 (Wednesday-Thursday):

• Thanks France for Military Aid and Naval Protection: Congress expresses gratitude to France for its continued military and naval support, recognizing France's significant contributions to the American cause during the Revolutionary War.

January 3 (Friday):

• Records Trenton Trial Decree in Connecticut-Pennsylvania Boundary Dispute: The decree from the trial held in Trenton settles the boundary dispute between Connecticut and Pennsylvania. This marks the first resolution of an interstate dispute under the Articles of Confederation, setting an important precedent for the peaceful settlement of territorial conflicts.

January 6 (Monday):

• Receives Army Petition on Pay Arrears; Appoints Committees to Inquire into Executive Departments: Congress receives a petition from the Continental Army concerning long-overdue pay, reflecting growing unrest in the army. In response, Congress appoints committees to investigate the management of the executive departments, likely to address issues of administrative inefficiency and mismanagement contributing to financial woes.

January 7 (Tuesday):

• Debates Setting Exchange Rate for Redeeming Old Continental Emissions: Congress discusses the practicalities of setting an exchange rate to redeem old Continental currency emissions, which had suffered significant depreciation throughout the war.

January 10 (Friday):

• Learns Superintendent of Finance Overdrew Bills of Exchange on European Funds: Congress is informed that Robert Morris, the superintendent of finance, has overdrawn bills of exchange on known funds secured in Europe, exacerbating the fiscal crisis. That same day, a deputation from the army meets with the grand committee of Congress to address grievances over pay and conditions.

January 13 (Monday):

• Debates Expediency of Negotiating Additional Foreign Loans: Congress engages in a debate over whether seeking further loans from foreign nations is a viable solution to the nation’s financial difficulties.

January 14 (Tuesday):

• Acquiesces in Rhode Island’s Request to Share Intelligence from Abroad with State Officials; Debates Land Valuation Formula in Grand Committee: Congress agrees to allow the Rhode Island delegation to share sensitive intelligence from abroad with the state's officials. At the same time, the grand committee debates a formula for land valuation, crucial for determining state contributions to the federal government.

January 17 (Friday):

• Thanks General Greene and the Southern Army; Declares Inexpediency of Seeking Additional Foreign Loans: Congress officially thanks General Nathanael Greene and his southern army for their efforts in securing American victories in the South. It also declares that it would not be expedient to pursue additional foreign loans at the moment, emphasizing the need for internal fiscal reform.

January 21 (Tuesday):

• Receives U.S.-Dutch Treaty Negotiated by John Adams: Congress receives the treaty of amity and commerce that John Adams successfully negotiated with the Dutch, a major diplomatic achievement that opened important trade relations with the Netherlands.

January 22 (Wednesday):

• Ratifies Franco-American Contract Negotiated by Benjamin Franklin: Congress ratifies a contract negotiated by Benjamin Franklin, further strengthening Franco-American relations.

January 23 (Thursday):

• Ratifies Dutch Treaty: Congress officially ratifies the treaty with the Dutch Republic, cementing the new commercial ties and international support.

January 24 (Friday):

• Orders Investigation of Abuses of Flag of Truce by the Amazon; Rejects Establishment of Congressional Library: Congress orders an investigation into allegations that the ship Amazon abused the flag of truce. At the same time, a proposal to establish a library for Congress is rejected.

January 25 (Saturday):

• Directs Superintendent of Finance to Pay Continental Army: Congress orders Robert Morris to ensure that the Continental Army receives the pay it is due, reflecting the urgent need to resolve tensions within the military over unpaid wages.

January 27-31 (Monday-Friday):

• Debates Proposals for Funding the Public Debt: Congress dedicates the week to discussing how best to manage and fund the growing public debt accumulated over the course of the war.

January 30 (Thursday):

• Rejects Pennsylvania Proposal to Pay Interest on Continental Securities Owned by Its Own Citizens: Congress declines a proposal from Pennsylvania to pay interest on Continental securities held by Pennsylvanians, reinforcing the idea that such payments must be handled on a national level rather than by individual states.

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February 1783

February 4-8 (Tuesday-Saturday):

• Receives Vermont Remonstrance Against Threatened Continental Intervention; Debates Proposals for Funding the Public Debt and Setting State Quotas: Vermont submits a formal remonstrance opposing any potential Continental intervention in its affairs. Congress also spends the week continuing discussions on how to fund the public debt and set state quotas for contributions to the national budget.

February 10-14 (Monday-Friday):

• Continues Debating Proposals for Funding the Public Debt and Setting State Quotas: Congress remains focused on finding a sustainable plan to address the public debt and apportion the financial responsibilities among the states.

February 17 (Monday):

• Adopts Plan to Appoint Commissioners for Estimating Land Values and Setting State Quotas: Congress moves forward by adopting a plan to appoint commissioners who will estimate the value of land in each state, a key element in determining state quotas for contributing to the national debt.

February 18 (Tuesday):

• Orders Superintendent of Finance to Estimate Public Debt; Each Executive Department to Report Civil List: Congress orders Robert Morris to calculate the total public debt. Additionally, it instructs each executive department to report its comprehensive civil list, the roster of government officials and their salaries.

February 21 (Friday):

• Exhorts States to Maintain Representation in Congress: Concerned about frequent absences, Congress urges the states to ensure that their delegates are consistently present, as many states had failed to maintain a full delegation, which hampered decision-making.

February 25-28 (Tuesday-Friday):

• Debates Proposals for Commutation of Continental Officers' Half Pay: Congress spends these days debating various proposals on how to handle the half-pay promised to Continental Army officers, a key issue in resolving the military’s grievances.

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March 1783

March 4 (Tuesday):

• Amends Ordinance for Establishing Courts for the Trial of Piracies: Congress revises the ordinance governing the creation of courts to try piracy cases, an important matter given the increased incidence of piracy in American waters.

March 6-7 (Thursday-Friday):

• Receives Report on Funding the Public Debt: Congress reviews a report on how to address the issue of the growing national debt.

March 10 (Monday):

• Debates Commutation of Continental Officers' Half Pay: Congress continues discussing the contentious issue of whether to commute the promised lifetime half-pay for officers into a lump sum, reflecting the need to balance the nation's financial obligations with the limited funds available.

March 11 (Tuesday):

• Debates Revenue Proposals: Congress debates proposals for generating revenue, considering the need to raise funds for the repayment of the public debt and other post-war expenses.

March 12 (Wednesday):

• Receives Preliminary Treaty of Peace: Congress is formally presented with the preliminary terms of the Treaty of Paris, which signals the near-end of the Revolutionary War.

March 12-15 (Wednesday-Saturday):

• Reads Treaty and Foreign Dispatches: Congress devotes time to reading and discussing the details of the preliminary treaty and various dispatches from American diplomats abroad, assessing the implications for the future of the young republic.

March 17 (Monday):

• Receives Washington’s Report on Army Crisis at Newburgh: Congress receives a report from General George Washington on the brewing discontent in the Continental Army, particularly regarding pay arrears and unresolved grievances, known as the Newburgh Crisis.

March 18-21 (Tuesday-Friday):

• Debates Report on Public Credit; Debates Proposal to Censure Ministers for Ignoring Negotiating Instructions: Congress discusses public credit and whether American diplomats ignored instructions during peace negotiations. This indicates growing concern about financial stability and the integrity of foreign negotiations.

March 22 (Saturday):

• Adopts Resolution to Commute Continental Officers' Half Pay for Life to Full Pay for Five Years: Congress resolves the issue of half pay by commuting it from lifetime payments to full pay for five years, a compromise meant to alleviate tensions within the army while also addressing financial constraints.

March 24 (Monday):

• Recalls All Continental Ships on Cruise: With peace on the horizon, Congress recalls all Continental naval ships still on cruise, signaling the winding down of military operations.

March 27-31 (Thursday-Monday):

• Debates Report on Public Credit; Renews Committee for Overseeing Office of Finance: Congress continues its debate on public credit and renews a committee tasked with overseeing the activities of the office of finance, ensuring that fiscal policies are properly implemented.

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April 1783

April 1 (Tuesday):

• Recommends States Revise Formula for Setting Continental Quotas; Learns of Call for Economic Convention at Hartford; Receives Invitation to Locate Continental Capital in Kingston, N.Y.: Congress recommends that the states revise the formula used to set their financial quotas, discusses an economic convention called for in Hartford, and receives an invitation to consider Kingston, New York, as the site of the nation’s capital.

April 4 (Friday):

• Orders Suspension of Enlistments in Continental Army: With the war effectively over, Congress orders a halt to further enlistments in the Continental Army.

April 7 (Monday):

• Revises Continental Quotas: Congress makes adjustments to the quotas assigned to the states, reflecting the ongoing fiscal recalibrations necessary in the post-war period.

April 11 (Friday):

• Adopts Cease-Fire Proclamation: Congress officially adopts a proclamation for a cease-fire, marking a crucial step toward the formal end of hostilities between the United States and Great Britain.

April 15 (Tuesday):

• Ratifies Preliminary Treaty of Peace: Congress ratifies the preliminary Treaty of Paris, formally acknowledging the agreement that would lead to the official end of the Revolutionary War.

April 17 (Thursday):

• Orders Sale of Continental Horses: Reflecting the demobilization of the Continental Army, Congress orders the sale of surplus horses.

April 18 (Friday):

• Asks States for Authority to Levy Revenue Duties: Congress issues an appeal to the states, asking for the authority to impose revenue duties, a critical step toward ensuring a steady income for the new government.

April 23 (Wednesday):

• Authorizes Washington to Discharge Continental Troops: Congress authorizes General Washington to begin discharging Continental troops, as peace is now all but certain.

April 24 (Thursday):

• Directs Washington to Confer with Gen. Guy Carleton on the Evacuation of New York: Congress directs General Washington to consult with the British commander, General Guy Carleton, regarding the evacuation of British forces from New York, one of the final steps in securing American independence.

April 26 (Saturday):

• Adopts Address to the States on New Revenue Plan: Congress adopts an address to the states, outlining a new plan for raising revenue, vital for stabilizing the nation's finances.

April 28 (Monday):

• Requests Robert Morris to Continue as Superintendent of Finance Until Reduction of the Continental Army: Congress asks Robert Morris to continue in his role as superintendent of finance until the planned reduction of the Continental Army is complete.

April 30 (Wednesday):

• Rejects Motion to Hold Debates in Public: Congress debates the idea of holding its sessions in public but ultimately rejects the motion, opting to maintain the tradition of closed-door discussions.

May 1, 1783 (Thursday):

• Directs Secretary at War to Negotiate Cease-Fire with Hostile Indian Nations: Congress orders Secretary at War, Benjamin Lincoln, to initiate negotiations with Native American tribes hostile to the United States to ensure peace on the frontier.
• Authorizes American Ministers to Negotiate Treaty of Commerce with Great Britain: Congress empowers its ministers abroad to open negotiations with Britain regarding future commercial relations between the two countries, signaling a shift to post-war diplomacy.

May 2 (Friday):

• Appeals to States for Collection of Taxes for Payment of Discharged Troops: With soldiers returning home, Congress appeals to the states to expedite the collection of taxes to fund payment for discharged Continental Army troops.
• Recommends that States Adopt Copyright Laws: Congress advises states to pass laws protecting the intellectual property rights of authors, marking an early instance of federal involvement in copyright issues.

May 9 (Friday):

• Asks States to Convene Assemblies to Adopt Fiscal Recommendations: Congress calls on state legislatures to convene special sessions to address urgent fiscal matters, particularly related to war debt and military compensation.

May 15 (Thursday):

• Revises Rules to Appoint Committees by Secret Ballot: Congress amends its rules to ensure that committee appointments are made through a secret ballot, adding a layer of confidentiality to its proceedings.

May 19-20 (Monday - Tuesday):

• Debates Treaty Article on Restitution of Confiscated Loyalist Property: Congress engages in intense debates over provisions in the peace treaty that call for the restitution of property confiscated from loyalists during the war, a contentious issue given the deep divisions between patriots and loyalists.

May 22 (Thursday):

• Instructs Francis Dana on Negotiating Treaty with Russia: Congress provides detailed instructions to its envoy, Francis Dana, for negotiating a treaty with Russia, expanding diplomatic efforts beyond Western Europe.

May 26 (Monday):

• Instructs American Ministers on Peace Terms Concerning Evacuation of American Posts and Carrying Off of American Slaves: Congress clarifies its position regarding the evacuation of British posts on American soil and the protection of American slaves, many of whom were being taken by the British.
• Instructs Washington on Furloughing Continental Troops: General Washington is authorized to furlough remaining Continental troops, signaling further demobilization of the wartime military.

May 29-30 (Thursday - Friday):

• Debates Treaty Articles on British Debts and Loyalist Property: Discussions continue over how to handle British claims for repayment of pre-war debts and the restoration of confiscated loyalist property, key sticking points in treaty negotiations.

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June 2 (Monday):

• Appoints Oliver Pollock Commercial Agent to Cuba: Congress assigns Oliver Pollock the task of managing trade relations with Cuba, recognizing the island's strategic importance for commerce in the Caribbean.

June 4 (Wednesday):

• Debates Virginia Cession of Western Land Claims: Congress resumes discussions over Virginia's cession of western land claims, an issue critical to resolving disputes over territorial governance and future state boundaries.

June 10 (Tuesday):

• Receives Report of the Mutiny of a Troop of Virginia Dragoons: Congress receives alarming news of unrest among Continental troops, highlighting continuing dissatisfaction in the military over unpaid wages and unfulfilled promises.

June 11 (Wednesday):

• Directs Furlough of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia Troops: In line with its efforts to demobilize, Congress orders the furlough of troops from several states, allowing them to return home.

June 12 (Thursday):

• Instructs American Ministers on Avoiding Treaties of Armed Neutrality: Congress advises its diplomatic corps to steer clear of treaties involving armed neutrality, reflecting concerns about entangling alliances with European powers.

June 13 (Friday):

• Receives "Mutinous Memorial" from Continental Army Sergeants: Congress is presented with a formal complaint from Continental Army sergeants expressing grievances over unpaid wages and delayed discharges.

June 17 (Tuesday):

• Commends the Conduct of Business in the Office of Finance: Congress acknowledges the efficient work of Robert Morris and his Office of Finance, which had been critical in managing the nation’s fiscal challenges during and after the war.

June 19 (Thursday):

• Receives Notice of the Mutiny of Continental Troops at Carlisle: Further unrest erupts among Continental troops, this time at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, raising alarm about the potential for widespread mutinies.
• Appoints Committee to Confer with Pennsylvania Officials on the Mutiny: Congress forms a special committee to work with Pennsylvania officials in an attempt to quell the rebellion.

June 21 (Saturday):

• Confronts Mutineers of the Pennsylvania Line: Congress directly confronts mutineers from the Pennsylvania Line, addressing their grievances and working to restore order.
• Authorizes President to Reconvene Congress at Trenton or Princeton, NJ: Fearing for its security, Congress authorizes its president, Elias Boudinot, to move the body to a safer location.
• President Boudinot Issues Proclamation Reconvening Congress at Princeton: In response to the mutiny, Boudinot officially moves Congress to Princeton, New Jersey, to ensure the safety of its members.

June 30 (Monday):

• Reconvenes at Princeton, NJ: Congress officially resumes its sessions in Princeton, after fleeing from Philadelphia due to security concerns related to the mutinies.

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July 1 (Tuesday):

• Directs General Robert Howe to Suppress Mutiny: Congress orders General Robert Howe to take command and suppress the ongoing mutiny, signaling a stern response to military unrest.
• Adopts Report Explaining Congressional Response to the Mutiny: A formal explanation is issued outlining the actions taken by Congress to address the mutiny and restore discipline within the military.

July 2 (Wednesday):

• Thanks New Jersey Officials for Their Reception of Congress: Congress formally thanks New Jersey authorities for their hospitality in accommodating Congress’s emergency relocation to Princeton.

July 9-11 (Wednesday-Friday):

• Debates Proposals for Paying Arrears Due to Continental Troops: Congress continues to struggle with how to meet its obligations to unpaid soldiers, a key source of unrest.

July 16 (Wednesday):

• Orders Recall of Commissioners Investigating British Embarkations from New York: With the war’s end, Congress recalls commissioners who had been monitoring British evacuations from New York.
• Directs Secretary Thomson to Maintain Record of Unrepresented States: Congress instructs Secretary Charles Thomson to keep detailed records of any states that fail to send delegates to congressional sessions.

July 23 (Wednesday):

• Receives Philadelphia Address Inviting Congress' Return: Philadelphia officials formally invite Congress to return to the city, hoping to restore the nation's capital after the recent mutiny-induced exodus.

July 28 (Monday):

• Returns Noncommittal Response to Philadelphia Address: Congress issues a cautious and noncommittal reply to Philadelphia's invitation, reflecting ongoing concerns about security and stability.
• Directs General Washington to Attend Congress: Congress calls on General Washington to make a personal appearance to address matters related to the disbandment of the army and the security of the nation.
• Relieves General Howe's Detachment Ordered to Suppress Pennsylvania Mutiny: Congress formally releases General Howe's troops from their duties after quelling the Pennsylvania mutiny.

July 29 (Tuesday):

• Ratifies Treaty of Amity and Commerce with Sweden: Congress ratifies the treaty, expanding diplomatic and commercial ties with Sweden.

July 30 (Wednesday):

• Directs Superintendent of Finance to Publish Regulations for Receiving "Morris Notes" in Payment of Taxes: Congress authorizes Robert Morris to issue financial notes that could be used for tax payments, an effort to stabilize the nation’s finances.

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August 1 (Friday):

• Rejects Motion to Adjourn to Philadelphia: Despite ongoing discussions, Congress decides against moving back to Philadelphia, reflecting concerns over security.

August 6 (Wednesday):

• Authorizes Distribution of "Necessities" to Delaware Indians and Friendly "Northern Nations": Congress approves aid to Native American tribes allied with the United States, part of its ongoing diplomacy with indigenous groups.

August 7 (Thursday):

• Orders Preparation of "an Equestrian Statue of the Commander in Chief": Congress commissions a statue of General Washington, recognizing his pivotal role in securing independence.

August 9 (Saturday):

• Authorizes Furloughing Additional Continental Troops: As demobilization continues, Congress orders more troops to be sent home on furlough.
• Continues Subsistence for Hazen's Canadian Regiment: Congress agrees to continue financial support for the remaining soldiers of Colonel Moses Hazen’s Canadian regiment.

August 13-14 (Wednesday-Thursday):

• Debates Motion for Returning to Philadelphia: Discussions continue on whether Congress should return to Philadelphia, with no final decision made.

August 15 (Friday):

• Receives Proceedings of the Court-Martial of the Philadelphia Mutineers: Congress reviews the legal proceedings related to the mutiny, further highlighting the unrest within the army.

August 18 (Monday):

• Directs Superintendent of Finance to Report Estimate of the Continental Debt: Robert Morris is tasked with delivering a comprehensive assessment of the nation's war debts.

August 26 (Tuesday):

• Conducts Audience with General Washington: General Washington appears before Congress to discuss the disbanding of the army and other military matters.

August 28 (Thursday):

• Debates Ordinance for Prohibiting Settlement of Indian Lands: Congress debates a crucial ordinance designed to prevent unauthorized settlement on lands belonging to Native American tribes, reflecting ongoing tension over westward expansion.

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September 1 (Monday):

• Receives Pennsylvania Assembly Resolves for Returning to Philadelphia: Congress receives another formal request from Pennsylvania to return to its previous capital in Philadelphia.

September 10 (Wednesday):

• Orders Renewal of Committees to Oversee the Executive Departments: Congress renews its various oversight committees tasked with ensuring the efficient operation of the nation's executive departments.

September 13 (Saturday):

• Adopts Stipulations Concerning the Cession of Virginia's Western Land Claims: Congress agrees to terms under which Virginia will cede its vast western land claims to the federal government, a critical step in managing post-war expansion.
• Confirms Acquittal of Leaders of the Philadelphia Mutiny: Congress formally clears the leaders of the Philadelphia mutiny of wrongdoing, offering some resolution to the crisis.

September 16-19 (Tuesday-Friday):

• Debates Massachusetts' Call for Retrenchment of Continental Expenses: Massachusetts calls for significant cuts to the national budget, leading to intense debates within Congress over the country's finances.

September 22 (Monday):

• Adopts Proclamation Regulating the Purchase of Indian Lands: Congress adopts a measure designed to regulate the sale and purchase of Native American lands, aiming to prevent fraudulent transactions.

September 24 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Secret Order Authorizing Washington to Discharge Continental Troops "as He Shall Deem Proper and Expedient": Congress grants Washington full authority to discharge troops from the army as he sees fit, reflecting continued trust in his leadership.

September 25 (Thursday):

• Reaffirms Commitment to Commutation of Half Pay Claims: Congress reasserts its commitment to honoring the financial claims of officers who had been promised half-pay pensions.
• Proclaims Treaty with Sweden: Congress formally announces its ratification of the treaty with Sweden, solidifying diplomatic relations.

September 29 (Monday):

• Lifts Injunction of Secrecy on Most Foreign Dispatches: Congress agrees to make many of its previously secret foreign communications public, promoting transparency.

September 30 (Tuesday):

• Promotes Continental Officers Not Promoted Since 1777: Congress takes action to promote officers who had been overlooked for advancement during the war, addressing long-standing grievances within the military.

October 1, 1783 (Wednesday):

• Debates Instructions for Ministers Abroad: Congress focuses on refining instructions for its diplomatic representatives in Europe, addressing ongoing negotiations concerning trade and the implementation of the peace treaty.

October 3 (Friday):

• Debates Indian Affairs: Congress engages in discussions about policies related to Native American tribes, specifically addressing frontier security, trade, and territorial rights in the post-war period.

October 6-9 (Monday-Thursday):

• Debates Location of the Continental Capital: For four days, Congress debates where the permanent seat of the federal government should be located. Various states propose sites, each seeking to host the nation’s capital.

October 8 (Wednesday):

• Receives Quaker Petition for Suppression of the Slave Trade: A petition from the Quaker community, urging Congress to take action to suppress the transatlantic slave trade, is formally received. This reflects growing antislavery sentiment in some circles of the new republic.

October 10 (Friday):

• Resolves to Leave Princeton; Debates Location of the Capital: Congress officially resolves to move from Princeton and continues debating where the future capital should be located.

October 15 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Resolves Regulating Indian Affairs: Congress passes a set of resolutions concerning the regulation of Indian affairs, establishing guidelines for trade and territorial relations with Native American tribes as the United States expands westward.

October 17 (Friday):

• Debates Location of the Capital: Further discussions take place about where to establish a permanent national capital, reflecting regional tensions and competing interests among the states.

October 18 (Saturday):

• Adopts Thanksgiving Proclamation: Congress issues a proclamation calling for a national day of thanksgiving, marking the peace and independence achieved after the Revolutionary War.

October 21 (Tuesday):

• Adopts Two Capital Locations - Congress to Meet Alternately "on the Banks of the Delaware and Potomac": In an effort to satisfy regional interests, Congress votes to establish the national capital at two alternating locations—one along the Delaware River and the other on the Potomac River.

October 22 (Wednesday):

• Orders Distribution of the Peace Treaty to the States: Congress instructs that the Treaty of Paris, which officially ends the Revolutionary War, be distributed to all states for their review and implementation.

October 23-24 (Thursday-Friday):

• Debates Peacetime Military Arrangements: With the war over, Congress deliberates the size and structure of a peacetime military, considering how best to maintain security with reduced forces while addressing the concerns of the states.

October 27-28 (Monday-Tuesday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum: On both days, Congress is unable to assemble the necessary number of delegates to conduct official business.

October 29 (Wednesday):

• Adopts Instructions for Negotiating Commercial Treaties: Congress approves guidelines for its diplomats engaged in negotiating trade agreements with foreign nations, focusing on securing favorable terms for American commerce in the post-war economy.

October 30 (Thursday):

• Authorizes Pennsylvania to Negotiate Indian Lands Purchase: Congress grants Pennsylvania the authority to negotiate the purchase of Native American lands within its borders, part of the ongoing efforts to manage westward expansion.

October 31 (Friday):

• Ratifies Fiscal Contract with France; Holds Audience with Dutch Minister Van Berckel: Congress ratifies a financial agreement with France, acknowledging debts owed from wartime support. Later, Congress formally receives Dutch diplomat Peter Johan Van Berckel, the Netherlands having been an important ally during the war.

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November 1, 1783 (Saturday):

• Orders Post Office Theft Inquiry; Adopts Rules to Improve Congressional Attendance: Concerned about mail theft, Congress orders an inquiry into the security of the Post Office and adopts rules aimed at improving attendance in Congress, reflecting frustration with frequent lack of quorum.

Fourth USCA: November 3, 1783
Thomas Mifflin, USCA President

November 3, 1783 (Monday):

• Convenes New Congress; Elects Thomas Mifflin President (Elects Daniel Carroll Chairman in the President's Absence): A new session of Congress is convened, and Thomas Mifflin is elected as its president. In his absence, Daniel Carroll is chosen to serve as chairman.

November 4, 1783 (Tuesday):

• Authorizes Discharge of the Continental Army - "Except 500 Men, with Proper Officers": Congress formally orders the disbandment of the Continental Army, retaining only 500 men to serve as a small standing force. This marks the end of the revolutionary army's active service.
• Adjourns to Annapolis, to Reconvene on the 26th: Congress decides to move to Annapolis, Maryland, and adjourns, planning to reconvene later in the month.

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December 13, 1783 (Saturday):

• Reconvenes at Annapolis: Congress resumes its session at the new location in Annapolis, Maryland, following its adjournment in early November.

December 15, 1783 (Monday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum: For the second time, Congress fails to gather enough members to meet the quorum necessary for conducting official business.

December 16, 1783  (Tuesday):

• Reads Foreign Dispatches: Congress receives and reviews foreign dispatches, likely concerning the state of diplomatic relations and ongoing negotiations with European powers following the end of the war.

December 17 (Wednesday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum: For a second day in a row, Congress is unable to assemble a quorum.

December 22, 1783 (Monday):

• Holds Public Entertainment for General Washington: Congress hosts a public reception for General George Washington, honoring his leadership in the war and preparing for his resignation from military command.

December 23, 1783 (Tuesday):

• Appeals to Unrepresented States to Maintain Congressional Attendance: Frustrated by continued absences, Congress issues a formal appeal to the states to ensure they send delegates to maintain representation.
• Receives Washington and Accepts His Resignation as Commander-in-Chief: In a historic moment, General Washington appears before Congress and formally resigns his commission as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of military power to civilian authority.

December 27 (Saturday):

• Receives Report on Capital Location: Congress receives a report concerning the future permanent location of the nation's capital, an issue that had sparked much debate throughout the year.

December 29, 1783 (Monday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum: Congress fails to gather enough members to conduct official business for the remainder of the year.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1784

January 1784

January 3, 1784 (Saturday):

• Resolves to Receive Francis Dana Regarding His Mission to Russia: Congress agrees to hear Francis Dana, the U.S. envoy to Russia, concerning his diplomatic efforts to secure Russian recognition and establish formal relations.

January 5, 1784 (Monday):

• Rejects Proposal to Nominate Knights to the Polish Order of Divine Providence: Congress votes against the proposal to nominate individuals for a Polish chivalric order, demonstrating its reluctance to engage in European-style aristocratic practices.

January 8, 1784 (Thursday):

• Debates Quaker Petition for Suppression of the Slave Trade: Congress considers the petition submitted by Quakers, who call for the suppression of the transatlantic slave trade, highlighting the emerging abolitionist sentiment in certain states.

January 10, 1784 (Saturday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum: Congress is unable to assemble the required number of delegates to proceed with business, a recurring issue due to low attendance.

January 14, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Ratifies Definitive Treaty of Peace, "Nine States Being Present"; Recommends That the States "Provide for the Restitution of" Confiscated Loyalist Property: Congress officially ratifies the Treaty of Paris, which ends the Revolutionary War, and recommends that the states restore property confiscated from Loyalists during the conflict as a condition of the treaty.

January 15 (Thursday):

• Acquiesces in Public Creditor Demand That Loan Office Certificate Interest Not Be Subject to Depreciation: Congress agrees to a demand from creditors that the interest on loan office certificates should not be subject to depreciation, aiming to protect the value of these wartime securities.

January 17-20, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum: Congress once again fails to gather enough members to meet quorum and conduct official business.

January 21, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Rejects Motion Denying Continental Jurisdiction in Lusannah Admiralty Appeal: Congress rules that it has jurisdiction in the Lusannah case, an admiralty dispute, asserting its authority over maritime matters.

January 22, 1784 (Thursday):

• Halts Plan to Dispose of Military Stores: Congress postpones the sale of remaining military supplies, possibly to ensure these resources were adequately managed in the post-war transition.

January 23, 1784 (Friday):

• Sets Date for Selecting Judges to Determine "the Private Right of Soil" in the Wyoming Valley: A date is set to appoint judges to resolve land ownership disputes in the contested Wyoming Valley between Pennsylvania and Connecticut settlers.

January 26, 1784  (Monday):

• Narrows Half-Pay Eligibility Rules: Congress refines the rules on who is eligible for the half-pay pension promised to Continental Army officers, making the program more selective.

January 27-28, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum: Congress is again unable to convene enough members to meet quorum requirements.

January 30, 1784 (Friday):

• Grants Sea-Letters for The Empress of China Voyage to Canton: Congress issues sea-letters, which are permissions to sail, for The Empress of China, the first American ship to embark on a commercial voyage to China, marking the beginning of U.S. trade with Asia.

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February 3, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Creates Post of Undersecretary to Revive Office for Foreign Affairs: Congress establishes the position of undersecretary to assist in reviving the Office for Foreign Affairs, which had been dormant due to a lack of direction and leadership.

February 4-5, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

February 6, 1784 (Friday):

• Issues Brevet Promotions for Departing Foreign Officers: Congress promotes several foreign officers who had served in the Continental Army, giving them brevet (honorary) ranks as they prepare to return to Europe.

February 7-9, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

February 10, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Plans General Treaty with Indian Nations of the Northern Department: Congress begins planning a treaty with the Native American tribes in the northern frontier, seeking to stabilize relations and secure U.S. territorial claims.

February 11, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Registers Commissions of Five French Consuls and Five Vice-Consuls: Congress officially registers the commissions of French consuls, formalizing diplomatic and commercial relationships with France at the regional level.

February 12, 1784 (Thursday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

February 16-23, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

February 24, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Postpones Debate on Garrisoning Frontier Posts Due to Failure of Nine-State Representation: Congress delays discussion on how to manage military garrisons on the western frontier, as it lacks the quorum necessary to make significant decisions.

February 27, 1784 (Friday):

• Commends Marquis de la Rouerie; Deadlocks Over Appointment of a Secretary for Foreign Affairs: Congress praises the service of French officer Armand, Marquis de la Rouerie, but fails to reach consensus on appointing a new secretary for foreign affairs.

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March 1, 1784 (Monday):

• Receives Indiana Company Petition; Accepts Virginia Cession of Western Land Claims; Reads Western Land Ordinance Report: Congress receives a petition from the Indiana Company concerning land claims in the west. Virginia’s cession of its western land claims is accepted, and the report on the western land ordinance is read, marking significant steps toward managing western expansion.

March 2, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Elects Henry Remsen Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs; Deadlocks Over Appointment of a Secretary: Henry Remsen is appointed to assist in managing foreign affairs, but Congress remains divided on who should lead the office.

March 4, 1784 (Thursday):

• Elects Commissioners to Negotiate with the Indians: Congress selects commissioners to represent the United States in upcoming treaty negotiations with Native American tribes, essential for securing peace and territorial boundaries.

March 5, 1784 (Friday):

• Debates Plans for Holding Treaty with the Indians: Congress discusses how to best organize and execute negotiations with Native American tribes in the northern department, reflecting the complexities of post-war diplomacy on the frontier.

March 10, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

March 12, 1784 (Friday):

• Rejects Connecticut Protest Against Half-Pay Plan: Congress dismisses Connecticut’s objection to the half-pay plan for Continental officers, reaffirming its commitment to fulfilling this promise.

March 13, 1784 (Saturday):

• Rejects Delaware Delegate Credentials, Exceeding Three-Year Limitation: Delaware’s delegate is rejected for exceeding the three-year service limit imposed by the Articles of Confederation.

March 16, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Bars Appointment of Aliens to Consular and Other Foreign Posts: Congress establishes a rule that only U.S. citizens can be appointed to consular or other foreign posts, reflecting concerns about loyalty and national identity.

March 19, 1784 (Friday):

• Adopts Instructions for Indian Commissioners: Congress finalizes instructions for the commissioners tasked with negotiating treaties with Native American tribes.

March 22-25, 1784:

• Postpones Debate on Lusannah Admiralty Appeal: Congress continues to delay its decision on this admiralty case due to ongoing challenges in assembling enough delegates for key votes.

March 23, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Rejects Credentials of Massachusetts Delegate Samuel Osgood: Congress refuses to seat Samuel Osgood as a Massachusetts delegate, likely due to procedural or eligibility concerns.

March 26, 1784 (Friday):

• Affirms That in Negotiating Commercial Treaties These United States Be Considered "As One Nation, Upon the Principles of the Federal Constitution": Congress asserts that the United States must be treated as a single entity when negotiating trade agreements, emphasizing national unity in foreign policy.

March 30, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Sets Quotas and Adopts Fiscal Appeal to the States; Rejects Motion Denying Continental Jurisdiction in Lusannah Appeal: Congress sets financial quotas for the states and appeals to them to meet their fiscal obligations. It also rejects the motion to deny jurisdiction over the Lusannah case.

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April 1-2, 1784:

• Debates Report on Negotiating Commercial Treaties: Congress continues its discussions on how to approach international trade negotiations in the aftermath of the war.

April 5, 1784 (Monday):

• Adopts Appeal to the States on Arrears of Interest Payments on the Public Debt: Congress urges the states to address overdue interest payments on the public debt, highlighting the ongoing financial crisis facing the new nation.

April 6, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Reads Report on Maintaining Frontier Garrisons: Congress considers a report on the need to maintain garrisons in the western frontier to protect settlements and enforce territorial claims.

April 8, 1784 (Thursday):

• Instructs Agent of Marine on Sale of Continental Ships: Congress directs the agent of marine to proceed with selling off some of the Continental Navy’s ships, a reflection of the post-war downsizing.

April 12, 1784 (Monday):

• Debates Public Debt: Congress continues to grapple with the issue of public debt and how to address the nation’s financial obligations, a central challenge in the early years of independence.

April 14, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Debates Motion to Adjourn from Annapolis to Various Proposed Sites: With continued dissatisfaction over the location of Congress, delegates discuss moving the national legislature to other cities.

April 16, 1784 (Friday):

• Instructs "Commissioners for Treating with the Indian Nations": Congress provides further instructions to the commissioners tasked with negotiating with Native American tribes, a critical element of frontier policy.

April 19, 1784 (Monday):

• Debates Western Land Ordinance; Deletes Anti-Slavery Paragraph: Congress debates the land ordinance governing the western territories and controversially removes a clause that would have prohibited slavery in the new territories.

April 20-23, 1784:

• Debates Western Land Ordinance: Further debate ensues over how to manage and distribute western lands, which will become the foundation for future states.

April 24, 1784 (Saturday):

• Receives New York Memorial Concerning the Vermont Dispute: Congress hears a memorial from New York regarding its territorial dispute with the self-proclaimed Republic of Vermont, which seeks recognition as an independent state.

April 26, 1784 (Monday):

• Resolves to Adjourn June 3, to Reconvene at Trenton October 30; Debates Capital's Location: Congress decides to adjourn in early June and reconvene in Trenton, New Jersey, while continuing the debate over where the permanent national capital should be located.

April 27-28, 1784:

• Debates Public Debt: Discussion continues on how to manage the burgeoning public debt, a pressing issue for the survival of the new republic’s creditworthiness.

April 28, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Orders Arrest of Henry Carbery, Leader of Pennsylvania Mutiny: Congress orders the arrest of Henry Carbery, who led a mutiny of Pennsylvania soldiers, signaling its concern about maintaining military discipline.

April 29, 1784 (Thursday):

• Exhorts States to Complete Western Land Cessions: Congress urges the states to finalize the cession of their western land claims, a crucial step for organizing and governing these territories under federal authority.

April 30, 1784 (Friday):

• Requests States to Vest Congress with Power to Regulate Trade "for the Term of Fifteen Years": Congress appeals to the states to grant it the authority to regulate trade for a limited period, seeking to manage commerce more effectively in the early years of the republic.

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May 3, 1784 (Monday):

• Reaffirms Secrecy Rule on Foreign Dispatches; Receives French Announcement on Opening Free Ports to U.S. Trade: Congress emphasizes the need to maintain secrecy in diplomatic communications and receives notice from France about the opening of free ports to American commerce.

May 5, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Debates Retrenchment of the Civil List: Congress discusses reducing the civil list, which includes the salaries of government officials, in an effort to cut expenses and address the financial crisis.

May 7, 1784 (Friday):

• Sets Diplomatic Salaries; Appoints John Jay Secretary for Foreign Affairs: Congress establishes salaries for diplomats and officially appoints John Jay as secretary for foreign affairs, a key position in managing the young nation's foreign relations.

May 11, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Adopts Instructions for Negotiation of Commercial Treaties: Congress provides its diplomats with specific instructions for negotiating trade agreements with foreign nations, prioritizing U.S. economic interests.

May 12, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Resolves to Request Delivery of Frontier Posts to U.S. Troops: Congress formally requests that British forces relinquish control of frontier posts in accordance with the peace treaty.

May 15, 1784 (Saturday):

• Debates Disqualification of Rhode Island Delegates: Congress discusses whether to disqualify Rhode Island’s delegates due to procedural issues, reflecting the ongoing political tensions among the states.

May 17, 1784 (Monday):

• Receives Announcement of French Minister La Luzerne's Intention to Return to France: Congress is informed that the French minister, La Luzerne, will be returning to France, marking a diplomatic transition.

May 18, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Orders Troops for the Protection of Indian Commissioners: Congress authorizes military protection for commissioners tasked with negotiating treaties with Native American tribes.

May 19-24, 1784:

• Debates Disqualification of Rhode Island Delegates: Further debate ensues over the status of Rhode Island’s delegates, with Congress struggling to maintain consistent attendance and representation from all states.

May 21-22, 1784:

• Fails to Convene Quorum.

May 25-27, 1784:

• Debates Garrisoning Frontier Posts: Congress continues its discussion on how to best manage and garrison military posts along the western frontier, vital for protecting settlers and enforcing U.S. territorial claims.

May 28, 1784 (Friday):

• Adopts "Ordinance for Putting the Department of Finance into Commission"; Reads Proposed Land Ordinance and Report on Indian Affairs: Congress establishes a new structure for managing federal finances and reviews important proposals concerning land distribution and Indian relations.

May 29, 1784 (Saturday):

• Appoints Committee of the States "to Sit in the Recess of Congress," and Adopts Resolutions Defining Its Powers and Rules; Offers Reward for Arrest of Chevalier de Longchamps for Assault on the French Consul General, the Marquis de Barbe-Marbois: Congress appoints a Committee of the States to manage government affairs during its recess and offers a reward for the capture of Longchamps, who had assaulted a French official, highlighting diplomatic tensions.

May 31, 1784 (Monday):

• Debates Garrisoning Frontier Posts: Congress continues its debate on the strategic importance of maintaining a military presence in the western frontier.

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June 1, 1784 (Tuesday):

• Resolves to Meet Thrice Daily Until Adjournment: To expedite business before the upcoming adjournment, Congress agrees to hold three daily sessions.

June 2, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Orders Discharge of Continental Troops "Except 25 Privates to Guard the Stores at Fort Pitt, and 55 to Guard the Stores at West Point": Congress orders the demobilization of most of the remaining Continental Army, leaving only small garrisons at Fort Pitt and West Point to safeguard military supplies.

June 3, 1784 (Thursday):

• Instructs Ministers Plenipotentiary Not to Relinquish Navigation of the Mississippi; Authorizes Call of 700 Militiamen to Protect the Northwestern Frontiers; Elects Three Treasury Commissioners; Adjourns "to Meet at Trenton on the 30th Day of October": Congress provides further diplomatic instructions regarding the Mississippi River, authorizes militia to protect the frontier, and appoints commissioners to oversee federal finances. The session is adjourned until October 30 in Trenton.

June 4, 1784 (Friday):

• Convenes Committee of the States: The Committee of the States, tasked with managing affairs during Congress’s recess, convenes to begin its duties.

June 26, 1784 (Saturday):

• Fails to Convene Quorum to July 5: The Committee of the States fails to gather a quorum, stalling business until early July.

 

Chronology of the Committee of the States from July 5 – August 3, 1784

Background: The Committee of the States was a body created by the Continental Congress to manage governmental affairs during the recess of Congress. The committee was to function with a quorum of nine states, but throughout its session in the summer of 1784, it faced significant challenges, including the inability to meet quorum frequently. Below is a chronology of the activities of the committee during this period.

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July 5, 1784 (Monday):

• The Committee of the States Reconvenes: After failing to convene on multiple previous dates in June, the Committee of the States finally assembles. It adopts rules to guide its operations and meets in session. The committee begins its business, which includes managing governmental affairs, overseeing the execution of congressional decisions, and handling financial and military matters.

July 6-20, 1784:

• Sessions Continue Regularly: Over the next two weeks, the Committee of the States holds daily or near-daily sessions. The committee works on a range of issues, including:
• Reviewing the state of federal finances.
• Overseeing the execution of treaties and instructions to diplomats.
• Managing military affairs, including garrisoning frontier posts and ensuring the protection of western settlements.
• Continuing debates on the disposition of federal lands, particularly concerning the western territories ceded by states like Virginia.
• Addressing the ongoing issue of maintaining a standing military force, especially in the context of garrisoning military forts such as West Point and Fort Pitt.
• Discussing the trade relationships with foreign nations, especially in light of the recent peace with Britain and the need to establish new commercial treaties.

July 16, 1784 (Friday):

• Orders Recall of Commissioners Investigating British Embarkations from New York: The committee directs the recall of commissioners who had been overseeing the British evacuation from New York after the Revolutionary War, now that the process was largely complete.

July 23, 1784 (Friday):

• Receives Address from Philadelphia Inviting Congress to Return: The committee receives an official address from the city of Philadelphia, inviting Congress to return to the city after its adjournment to Princeton, NJ. Philadelphia, seeking to restore its status as the national capital, makes the case for hosting the government again.

July 28, 1784 (Wednesday):

• Committee Sends Noncommittal Response to Philadelphia's Invitation: The committee sends a carefully worded response to the Philadelphia address, avoiding a firm commitment on whether Congress or the government will relocate to the city, as the debate over the permanent location of the capital continued to loom large in national politics.

July 29, 1784 (Thursday):

• Ratifies Treaty of Amity and Commerce with Sweden: The committee approves and ratifies a treaty of amity and commerce with Sweden, further solidifying the United States’ diplomatic and trade relationships with European powers.

July 30, 1784 (Friday):

• Directs Superintendent of Finance to Publish Regulations for "Morris Notes": The committee orders the Superintendent of Finance, Robert Morris, to publish official regulations regarding the use of "Morris Notes"—a form of promissory note issued by Morris’s office to help manage the federal government’s chronic shortage of funds. These notes were intended to stabilize the economy and provide liquidity in the face of wartime debt.

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August 1, 1784 (Sunday):

• Committee Rejects Motion to Adjourn to Philadelphia: A motion is brought forward to adjourn the committee’s proceedings to Philadelphia, but it is rejected. Philadelphia's attempt to regain its status as the nation's capital is thus delayed.

August 3, 1784 (Tuesday):

• The Committee Dissolves Amid Controversy: On this day, the Committee of the States effectively dissolves. Having faced mounting challenges, including consistent difficulties in maintaining a quorum, the committee was unable to continue its work effectively. The inability to achieve a quorum regularly crippled its functionality, and by this point, the committee’s sessions came to an end, leaving its intended work unfinished.

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Outcome and Consequences: The failure of the Committee of the States to function effectively exposed significant weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation. Its inability to maintain consistent participation from the states, coupled with its limited powers, underscored the need for a stronger central government—one of the many factors that would eventually lead to the Constitutional Convention in 1787.

November 1, 1784 – Monday – Congress Convenes at Trenton

• Congress was scheduled to reconvene in Trenton, New Jersey. However, only two states were represented, which fell well short of the nine-state quorum required under the Articles of Confederation to officially convene. As a result, Congress could not conduct any legislative business, reflecting the ongoing challenge of securing consistent state participation.

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November 29, 1784 – Monday – Quorum Achieved

• After almost a month of delay, Congress finally achieved a quorum with seven states represented. Although this was still not the full nine-state quorum required for more substantive legislative actions, Congress was now able to officially convene and begin addressing important issues, though significant decisions would still require additional state participation.

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Fifth USCA: November 29, 1784
Richard Henry Lee USCA President

November 30, 1784 – Tuesday – Richard Henry Lee Elected President of Congress

• Following the establishment of a quorum, Congress moved to elect a new president. Richard Henry Lee of Virginia, a well-known statesman and advocate of independence, was elected. Lee’s experience and leadership were expected to help guide Congress through the legislative and diplomatic challenges ahead, especially as the new United States sought to navigate its post-war governance.

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December 3, 1784 – Friday – Swedish Consul Registered; Troop Redeployment Ordered

• Congress formally registered the commission of Charles Hellstedt as the Swedish consul. This marked a continuation of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with European powers, in this case, Sweden.
• On the same day, Congress ordered the redeployment of troops stationed at Fort Stanwix to West Point, a key military post along the Hudson River. This decision reflected shifting military priorities as the new nation sought to secure its remaining military outposts.

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December 7, 1784 – Tuesday – Redeployment Countermanded

• Only days after ordering the redeployment of Fort Stanwix troops, Congress reversed its decision. The troops were instead ordered to move to Fort Rensselaer, another strategic location that was deemed important for securing the frontier. This highlights the fluidity of military planning during this post-war period.

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December 8, 1784 – Wednesday – Massachusetts and New York Land Dispute

• Congress received agents from Massachusetts and New York who had assembled to select judges for the resolution of their ongoing land dispute. This conflict involved overlapping territorial claims in the area that would later become western New York. The involvement of Congress in mediating such disputes was one of the key functions envisioned by the Articles of Confederation, ensuring a federal role in resolving interstate conflicts.

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December 11, 1784 – Saturday – Motion to Adjourn from Trenton Rejected; Marquis de Lafayette Commended

• A motion was introduced to adjourn Congress from Trenton, possibly due to logistical challenges, but it was rejected, signaling the members' determination to continue their work at the current location.
• Congress also passed a resolution commending the marquis de Lafayette, a French ally who played a significant role in securing American independence. This act of recognition reflected ongoing efforts to maintain strong relations with France and honor key figures in the Revolutionary War.

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December 14, 1784 – Tuesday – Election of Treasury Commissioners Postponed; Franklin’s Consular Convention Delayed

• Congress postponed the election of new commissioners for the treasury, a critical delay given the ongoing financial difficulties the country faced. The Confederation government was struggling to manage its debts and secure adequate revenue from the states.
• Benjamin Franklin, the U.S. Minister to France, was instructed to delay signing a consular convention with France. This postponement highlights the delicate nature of negotiations and diplomatic agreements in the post-war period, as the new government sought to carefully navigate international relations.

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December 15, 1784 – Wednesday – Spain Closes the Mississippi River

• Congress received official notification from Spain that it had closed the Mississippi River to American navigation. This was a significant blow to western settlers and traders who relied on the river for transporting goods. The closure of the river was a critical issue in U.S.-Spanish relations and underscored ongoing tensions regarding territorial boundaries and access to trade routes.

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December 17, 1784 – Friday – Chaplain Elected; Decision to Appoint Minister to Spain

• Congress elected a new chaplain, a customary practice during its sessions, reflecting the continued importance of religion in the public and political life of the time.
• Congress also resolved to appoint a minister to Spain in response to the tensions over the Mississippi River. The appointment of a minister was an important step in addressing the diplomatic challenges with Spain, especially as American settlers moved westward and sought access to key trading routes.

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December 20, 1784 – Monday – Overturning of Dual Capital Decision; Capital Buildings Appropriated

• Congress overturned a previous decision to establish two capital locations—one on the banks of the Delaware River and one on the Potomac River. The idea of having alternating capitals was deemed impractical, likely due to logistical and political concerns.
• Instead, Congress appropriated $100,000 for the construction of permanent capital buildings, signifying the commitment to establish a central and stable seat of government for the new nation.

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December 23, 1784 – Thursday – Ordinance for Fixing Congressional Residence Adopted

• Congress adopted an ordinance that outlined the process for selecting a permanent residence for the national government. The issue of where to locate the federal capital had been a source of ongoing debate, with various regions and states lobbying to host the seat of government. The ordinance was an attempt to bring clarity to this contentious issue.

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December 24, 1784 – Friday – Judges Certified for Massachusetts-New York Land Dispute; Congress Adjourns to New York City

• Congress officially certified the selection of judges to hear the land dispute between Massachusetts and New York. This was a crucial step in resolving the conflict over land claims in western New York, which had become a pressing issue.
• With business for the year concluded, Congress adjourned from Trenton and announced its plan to reconvene in New York City, marking a significant move in the ongoing debate over the permanent location of the federal capital.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1785

January 1785

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The January 11, 1785 – Tuesday – Congress Reconvenes

• Congress reconvenes with five states represented, marking the beginning of the new session after its adjournment in late December 1784.

January 13, 1785 – Thursday – Quorum Achieved

• Seven states were represented, providing the quorum needed to conduct official business under the Articles of Confederation.

January 18, 1785 – Tuesday – New York City Hall Offered for Use of Congress

• Congress accepted New York City’s offer to use City Hall for its meetings, which was part of the ongoing debate about where the permanent capital of the United States should be located.

January 20, 1785 – Thursday – Communication to the States on U.S. Credit Abroad

• Congress sent a message to the states, alerting them to the precariousness of U.S. credit abroad, emphasizing the need for states to meet fiscal obligations to preserve the nation's international reputation.

January 24, 1785 – Monday – Requisition Preparation for 1785 Ordered

• Congress ordered the preparation of a requisition on the states to fund the national government for 1785.

January 25, 1785 – Tuesday – Treasury Commissioners Elected

• Congress elected commissioners to oversee the treasury and tabled a plan proposed by Major Pierre L'Enfant for establishing a corps of engineers.

 

January 27, 1785 – Thursday – Secretary at War's Powers and Duties Ordinance

• Congress adopted an ordinance that clarified the powers and duties of the Secretary at War, helping to formalize the administration of the military.

January 31, 1785 – Monday – Decision to Appoint a Minister to Great Britain

• Congress resolved to appoint a minister to Great Britain, a significant step in formalizing diplomatic relations between the two nations after the Revolutionary War.

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February 1785

February 1, 1785 – Tuesday – Dutch Loan Ratified

• Congress ratified the terms of a two-million-guilder loan from the Netherlands, providing much-needed financial support for the young nation.

February 2, 1785 – Wednesday – Proclamation Against Counterfeiting

• A proclamation was issued urging the states to penalize counterfeiters, a crucial step in stabilizing the nation’s currency.

February 7, 1785 – Monday – Lease of Public Buildings to Dickinson College Approved

• Congress approved the lease of public buildings in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to Dickinson College and ordered the relocation of the War Office, Post Office, and Treasury offices to New York.

February 10, 1785 – Thursday – Philip Schuyler Appointed Commissioner for Federal Capital Planning

• Philip Schuyler was appointed to oversee planning for a permanent federal capital.

February 11, 1785 – Friday – Office for Foreign Affairs Regulations Adopted

• Congress adopted regulations for the office of foreign affairs, conceding to the demands of Secretary John Jay, further solidifying the structure of the nation's diplomacy.

February 18, 1785 – Friday – Limits Imposed on Terms of Ministers Abroad

• Congress imposed limits on how long ministers could serve abroad, an effort to keep diplomatic missions within the control of the central government.

February 21, 1785 – Monday – Commissioners to Illinois Settlements Appointed

• Congress resolved to send commissioners to the Illinois Settlements, demonstrating a growing interest in managing western territories.

February 24, 1785 – Thursday – John Adams Appointed Minister to Great Britain

• John Adams was officially appointed as the U.S. minister to Great Britain, tasked with negotiating post-war issues between the two countries.

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March 1785

March 4, 1785 – Friday – Debate on Western Land Ordinance Begins

• Congress began debating the ordinance for managing western lands, a key issue in expanding and regulating the new territories.

March 7, 1785 – Monday – Benjamin Franklin Authorized to Return to America

• Congress authorized Benjamin Franklin’s return to America, recognizing his long service as the U.S. minister to France.

March 8, 1785 – Tuesday – Henry Knox Elected Secretary at War

• General Henry Knox, a trusted military figure from the Revolutionary War, was elected Secretary at War.

March 10, 1785 – Thursday – Thomas Jefferson Elected Minister to France

• Thomas Jefferson was appointed to succeed Benjamin Franklin as the U.S. minister to France, marking a key diplomatic transition.

March 11, 1785 – Friday – Barbary States Negotiations Instructions Adopted

• Congress adopted instructions for negotiating with the Barbary States to address the ongoing threat of piracy against American shipping.

March 15, 1785 – Tuesday – Instructions for Southern Indian Commissioners Adopted

• Congress approved instructions for commissioners responsible for managing relations with Native American nations in the southern territories.

March 16, 1785 – Wednesday – Slavery Limitation Motion Rejected

• Congress rejected a motion to limit slavery in the territories, a decision that would have long-term consequences for the nation’s expansion and political development.

March 17, 1785 – Thursday – Claims Against U.S. Deadline Set

• A 12-month limit was imposed for the submission of claims against the United States, streamlining the process for handling debts and financial obligations.

March 18, 1785 – Friday – Instructions for Western Indian Commissioners Adopted

• Instructions for commissioners handling relations with Native American nations in the western territories were adopted.

March 21, 1785 – Monday – Southern Indian Commissioners Elected

• Congress elected commissioners to manage relations with Native Americans in the southern regions and thanked the King of Denmark for his offer to ordain American candidates for holy orders.

March 28, 1785 – Monday – Congress Receives Commerce Powers Report

• Congress received a report on granting commerce powers, part of an ongoing debate about how much authority the central government should have over trade and economic policies.

March 31, 1785 – Thursday – Secretary of Congress Ordinance Adopted

• Congress adopted an ordinance regulating the office of the Secretary of Congress and received the report on the requisition for 1785.

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April 1785

April 1, 1785 – Friday – Debate on Continental Military Needs Begins

• Congress began debating the military needs of the Continental Army in light of the nation’s security concerns and financial constraints.

April 7, 1785 – Thursday – Military Establishment of 700 Troops Authorized

• Congress authorized a military force of 700 troops to ensure national security and maintain order in the territories.

April 14, 1785 – Thursday – Revised Western Land Ordinance Read

• Congress read a revised version of the western land ordinance, setting the stage for further debate on how to manage and sell the new western lands.

April 18, 1785 – Monday – Massachusetts Cession of Western Lands Accepted

• Congress accepted Massachusetts’ cession of its western land claims, further consolidating federal control over western territories.

April 22-28, 1785 – Friday to Thursday – Debate on Western Land Ordinance

• Congress engaged in extensive debate over the western land ordinance, a key piece of legislation that would shape the expansion and settlement of the western territories.

April 29, 1785 – Friday – Appeal to States for Maintaining Representation

• Congress issued an appeal to the states, urging them to maintain full representation in the national legislature to ensure that important business could proceed.

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May 1785

May 2-6, 1785 – Monday to Friday – Further Debate on Western Land Ordinance

• Congress continued to debate the western land ordinance, working to finalize the details of how western lands would be surveyed and sold.

May 9-12, 1785 – Monday to Thursday – Quorum Fails

• Congress was unable to achieve a quorum, with only five states represented, preventing any official business from being conducted.

May 13, 1785 – Friday – Coinage Report Received

• Congress received a report on the establishment of a national coinage system, a key step in developing a unified monetary policy.

May 18-19, 1785 – Wednesday to Thursday – Western Land Ordinance Debated

• Further debate occurred on the western land ordinance, which was a top priority as the nation expanded westward.

May 20, 1785 – Friday – Western Land Ordinance Adopted

• Congress formally adopted the western land ordinance, which laid the foundation for the systematic survey and sale of western lands. It also appealed to North Carolina to repeat its cession of western land claims.

May 24, 1785 – Tuesday – Quorum Fails (Four States)

• Once again, Congress failed to achieve a quorum, with only four states represented, preventing the continuation of business.

May 27, 1785 – Friday – U.S. Geographer Appointment Renewed; Continental Surveyors Appointed

• Congress renewed the appointment of the geographer of the United States and appointed 13 surveyors to oversee the implementation of the western land ordinance.

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June 1785

June 1, 1785 – Wednesday – Court Authorized for South Carolina-Georgia Boundary Dispute

• Congress authorized the creation of a federal court to settle the boundary dispute between South Carolina and Georgia, demonstrating the federal government’s role in resolving interstate conflicts.

June 3, 1785 – Friday – Treaties Published from Fort Stanwix and Fort McIntosh

• Congress published treaties that had been negotiated with Native American tribes at Fort Stanwix and Fort McIntosh, formalizing relations and territorial agreements.

June 6, 1785 – Monday – Indian Treaty at Vincennes Authorized

• Congress authorized negotiations for a treaty with Native American tribes at Vincennes, continuing the effort to manage relations with western tribes.

June 7, 1785 – Tuesday – Fort Pitt Garrison Discharged

• Congress discharged the garrison at Fort Pitt, reflecting changing military priorities in the post-war period.

June 14, 1785 – Tuesday – Response to French Birth Announcement

• Congress responded to France’s announcement of the birth of a second heir to the throne, reaffirming the close diplomatic relationship between the United States and France.

June 17, 1785 – Friday – John Jay to Plan Audience for Spanish Plenipotentiary

• Congress instructed John Jay to plan an audience for Diego de Gardoqui, the Spanish plenipotentiary, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts with Spain.

June 20, 1785 – Monday – Inquiry into Late Superintendent of Finance Ordered

• Congress ordered an inquiry into the administration of the late superintendent of finance, part of ongoing efforts to manage the nation’s financial affairs.

June 21, 1785 – Tuesday – Annual Treasury Administration Inquiry Ordered

• Congress mandated an annual inquiry into the administration of the treasury, ensuring accountability in the nation’s financial operations.

June 23, 1785 – Thursday – William Livingston Appointed Minister to Netherlands (Declines)

• Congress appointed William Livingston as the minister to the Netherlands, but he declined the post, highlighting the difficulty of filling key diplomatic positions.

June 29, 1785 – Wednesday – Virginia Asked for Military Support for Indian Commissioners

• Congress requested Virginia provide military support for Indian commissioners as they negotiated treaties with Native American tribes.

June 30, 1785 – Thursday – Study of Mail Transportation Ordered

• Congress ordered a study on the transportation of mail, part of the ongoing effort to improve communication and postal services across the country.

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July 1785

July 1, 1785 – Friday – Motion to Abolish Court of Appeals Rejected

• Congress rejected a motion to abolish the Court of Appeals, but it terminated the salaries of the judges, indicating ongoing fiscal concerns.

July 2, 1785 – Saturday – Diego de Gardoqui Receives Congress

• Congress officially received the Spanish plenipotentiary, Diego de Gardoqui, furthering diplomatic efforts between the United States and Spain.

July 4, 1785 – Monday – Independence Day Celebrated

• Congress celebrated the nation’s Independence Day, marking the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

July 5, 1785 – Tuesday – John Rutledge Appointed Minister to the Netherlands (Declines)

• John Rutledge was appointed as the minister to the Netherlands, but he also declined the post, continuing the challenge of securing diplomatic personnel.

July 6, 1785 – Wednesday – U.S. Dollar Adopted as Money Unit

• Congress adopted the dollar as the official money unit of the United States, a significant step in establishing a national currency.

July 11, 1785 – Monday – Rations Continued for Canadian Refugees

• Congress resolved to continue providing rations to Canadian refugees, reflecting the ongoing responsibility for displaced persons after the war.

July 12, 1785 – Tuesday – Post Office Report Received

• Congress received a report on the status of the Post Office, an essential institution for communication in the growing nation.

July 13-14, 1785 – Wednesday-Thursday – Debate on Commerce Power for Congress

• Congress debated whether it should be granted the power to regulate commerce, a key issue in strengthening the central government’s control over trade.

July 18, 1785 – Monday – Debate on 1785 Requisition

• Congress resumed debate on the requisition for 1785, an ongoing effort to secure funding from the states to meet national financial obligations.

July 20, 1785 – Wednesday – Commissary of Military Stores Abolished

• Congress abolished the commissary of military stores, continuing its efforts to reduce expenses and streamline the military.

July 22, 1785 – Friday – Further Debate on 1785 Requisition

• Congress continued its debate on the 1785 requisition, reflecting the difficulty of securing adequate funding from the states.

July 25, 1785 – Monday – Quartermaster Department Abolished

• Congress abolished the quartermaster department, another cost-cutting measure as the nation sought to reduce its military expenditures.

July 28-29, 1785 – Thursday-Friday – Further Debate on 1785 Requisition

• The debate on the requisition for 1785 continued, reflecting the ongoing challenge of securing state contributions to the national budget.

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August 1785

August 1-3, 1785 – Monday-Wednesday – Requisition Debate Continues

• The discussion on the 1785 requisition persisted as Congress sought to finalize its financial plans.

August 5, 1785 – Friday – Treasurer’s Office Relocated to New York

• Congress ordered the relocation of the treasurer’s office to New York City by October 1, continuing the consolidation of government functions in one location.

August 10-13, 1785 – Wednesday-Saturday – Congress in Recess

• Congress went into recess, taking a break from legislative business.

August 15, 1785 – Monday – Thanks to King of Spain

• Congress officially thanked the King of Spain for sending Diego de Gardoqui as a diplomatic envoy, reinforcing the importance of Spanish relations.

August 17, 1785 – Wednesday – Samuel Holten Appointed Acting Chairman

• With President Richard Henry Lee absent for health reasons, Samuel Holten was appointed as acting chairman through September 29.

August 18, 1785 – Thursday – Massachusetts Governor Bowdoin’s Conduct Endorsed

• Congress endorsed the conduct of Massachusetts Governor James Bowdoin in his controversy with British naval Captain Henry Stanhope.

August 25, 1785 – Thursday – John Jay Given Greater Authority in Spanish Negotiations

• Congress granted John Jay additional latitude in his negotiations with Diego de Gardoqui, particularly in discussions over the Mississippi River and trade.

August 29, 1785 – Monday – Committee of the Week Abolished

• Congress abolished the committee of the week, transferring its duties to the Secretary of Congress to streamline the legislative process.

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September 1785

September 2-3, 1785 – Friday-Saturday – Quorum Fails

• Congress failed to achieve a quorum, with only five states represented on September 2 and two states on September 3.

September 5, 1785 – Monday – John Jay Report on British Occupation of Northwest Posts

• Congress received a report from John Jay on the continued British occupation of northwest posts, an ongoing source of tension between the U.S. and Britain.

September 7, 1785 – Wednesday – John Jay Authorized to Inspect Mails

• Congress authorized John Jay to inspect the mails when deemed necessary for the safety or interest of the United States and approved the conveyance of mails by stage carriages.

September 13-17, 1785 – Tuesday-Saturday – Debate on 1785 Requisition

• Congress resumed debate on the requisition for 1785, as the need for state contributions to the national budget remained pressing.

September 19-21, 1785 – Monday-Wednesday – Connecticut Settlers’ Appeal Debated

• Congress debated an appeal by Connecticut settlers in the Wyoming Valley, part of an ongoing land dispute with Pennsylvania.

September 22-26, 1785 – Thursday-Monday – Further Debate on 1785 Requisition

• The requisition for 1785 continued to dominate the discussion as Congress worked to finalize its financial plans.

September 27, 1785 – Tuesday – 1785 Requisition Adopted

• After months of debate, Congress finally adopted the requisition for 1785, formalizing the contributions required from the states to fund the national government.

September 29, 1785 – Thursday – Commission Authorized for Massachusetts-New York Boundary

• Congress authorized a commission to settle the eastern boundary dispute between Massachusetts and New York.

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October 1785

October 5, 1785 – Wednesday – Postmaster General Ordered to Extend Postal System

• Congress directed the Postmaster General to extend the system of posts, reflecting the ongoing expansion of communication networks in the new nation.

October 7, 1785 – Friday – Western Separatism Threat Debated

• Congress debated the growing threat of western separatism, as settlers in the western territories expressed dissatisfaction with their treatment by the eastern states.

October 12, 1785 – Wednesday – Troops Authorized for Western Indian Negotiations

• Congress authorized the deployment of troops to attend the negotiations with western Native American nations and exhorted the states to meet their fiscal quotas.

October 17-18, 1785 – Monday-Tuesday – Death of Samuel Hardy Mourned

• Congress mourned the death of Samuel Hardy, a 27-year-old Virginia delegate who had served with distinction in the Continental Congress.

October 20, 1785 – Thursday – Report on Barbary States Naval Threat Received

• Congress received a report from John Jay on the growing naval threat posed by the Barbary States, a persistent problem for American shipping in the Mediterranean.

October 21-22, 1785 – Friday-Saturday – Quorum Fails

• Congress failed to achieve a quorum, with six states represented on October 21 and only one state present on October 22.

October 25, 1785 – Tuesday – Quorum Fails Again

• Once again, Congress failed to achieve a quorum, with only four states represented.

October 27, 1785 – Thursday – Proposal to Create Consular Establishment Rejected

• Congress rejected a proposal to create a consular establishment, choosing instead to confer consular powers on ministers abroad.

October 28, 1785 – Friday – Consular Powers Conferred on Ministers Abroad

• Congress formally conferred consular powers on American ministers stationed abroad, part of its effort to improve diplomatic and trade relations.

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November 1785

November 2, 1785 – Wednesday – Massachusetts-New York Land Claim Court Postponed

• Congress postponed the convening of a federal court to determine the disputed western land claims between Massachusetts and New York.

November 4, 1785 – Friday – Congressional Session Expires

• The session of Congress expired, concluding the legislative business for the year until the next session convened.

November 7, 1785 – Monday – Congress Convenes in New York City (Fails to Achieve Quorum)

• Congress reconvened at New York City, but with only three states represented, it failed to achieve the quorum required by the Articles of Confederation to conduct official business. This reflected the ongoing challenge of maintaining consistent representation and attendance from the states.

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Sixth USCA: November 23, 1785
John Hancock  USCA President

November 23, 1785 – Wednesday – Quorum Achieved, John Hancock Elected President

• After a delay of more than two weeks, Congress finally achieved a quorum with seven states represented. In the absence of John Hancock, who was elected president of Congress in absentia, David Ramsay was appointed as chairman to preside over the session. Hancock's election reflected his stature, but his absence would prove to be a recurring issue.

November 24, 1785 – Thursday – Congressional Chaplains Elected

• Congress elected two chaplains to serve during the session, a customary practice to provide religious services and invocations during congressional proceedings. The chaplains played a symbolic role in grounding Congress’s proceedings in a sense of moral and religious duty.

November 25, 1785 – Friday – Report on British Consul John Temple Received

• Congress received a report concerning John Temple, the British consul stationed in the United States. Temple had been a controversial figure, particularly because of lingering distrust towards Britain following the Revolutionary War. His role as consul required delicate diplomacy between the United States and Britain, as relations were still fragile.

November 28-29, 1785 – Monday-Tuesday – Congress Fails to Achieve Quorum Again

• Despite having achieved a quorum just days earlier, Congress again failed to maintain the necessary representation to conduct business on both November 28 and 29, highlighting the persistent difficulties with state attendance and engagement.

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December 1785

December 2, 1785 – Friday – John Temple Recognized as British Consul

• After receiving the necessary reports and deliberating, Congress formally recognized John Temple as the British consul to the United States. This marked a significant step in stabilizing diplomatic relations between the two nations, although tensions and skepticism towards Britain remained high among some American leaders.

December 5-26, 1785 – Monday-Monday – Congress Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For much of December, Congress was again unable to maintain a quorum, with no official business conducted during this period. The lack of a quorum underscored the structural issues within the Articles of Confederation, where the lack of a centralized authority made it difficult to compel states to send and maintain delegations consistently.

December 27, 1785 – Tuesday – Secretary at War Reports Received

• Congress reconvened briefly on December 27 and received reports from the Secretary at War. These reports likely dealt with military affairs, including the management of forts and relations with Native American tribes, as the new nation still faced security concerns on its frontiers.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1786

January 1786

January 2, 1786 – Monday – Receives British Complaint on Loyalists

• Congress received a formal complaint from Britain regarding the treatment of loyalists in the United States. The issue of how to handle loyalists had remained contentious since the end of the Revolutionary War, as many had been ostracized or faced property confiscations.

January 4, 1786 – Wednesday – Receives Reports on States' Fiscal Response

• Congress was presented with reports detailing the states' responses to prior congressional appeals for authority to raise revenue and regulate trade. This highlighted the ongoing struggle for financial stability and centralized control under the Articles of Confederation.

January 5, 1786 – Thursday – Report on Algerian Capture of American Seamen

• A report was submitted detailing the capture of American seamen by Algerian pirates. This marked another instance of the young nation's challenges in protecting its citizens and engaging in international diplomacy without a strong navy or the power to levy taxes to fund one.

January 12, 1786 – Thursday – Receives Report on Continental Accounts

• A report on the settlement of the Continental Army's accounts was presented, addressing concerns about fiscal responsibility and ongoing issues of soldier compensation.

January 18, 1786 – Wednesday – Refers Connecticut Cession to Committee

• The Connecticut land cession, where the state was expected to relinquish its western land claims, was referred to a committee for further deliberation. This was part of an effort to resolve disputes over western land claims and use the land for federal purposes.

January 19, 1786 – Thursday – Orders Report on 1786 Fiscal Estimates

• Congress requested a detailed report on the fiscal estimates for 1786, recognizing the importance of establishing a budget amid ongoing financial difficulties.

January 27, 1786 – Friday – Samuel Shaw Elected Consul to Canton

• Samuel Shaw was elected as the first American consul to Canton, China, reflecting the United States' growing interest in international trade, particularly with East Asia.

January 30, 1786 – Monday – Appeals to Unrepresented States

• Congress made a formal appeal to six states that had not sent delegates to the session, urging them to do so in order to maintain quorum and ensure that federal matters could be addressed efficiently.

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February 1786

February 1, 1786 – Wednesday – Secrecy Lifted on Barbary Powers Correspondence

• The injunction of secrecy was removed from correspondence regarding the appointment of commissioners to negotiate with the Barbary powers, part of an effort to address the ongoing issue of piracy in the Mediterranean.

February 3, 1786 – Friday – Debates States' Fiscal Responses

• Congress debated the various fiscal responses from the states, highlighting the difficulties in securing adequate financial support from the states under the Articles of Confederation.

February 8, 1786 – Wednesday – Report on French Loan Interest

• A report was presented on the interest payments required for a loan secured from France during the Revolutionary War. These loans were a major financial burden for the fledgling nation.

February 9, 1786 – Thursday – Justifies Abolishing Court of Appeals Judges' Salaries

• Congress justified its decision to abolish the salaries of the judges on the Court of Appeals, citing fiscal austerity measures. The court had become less active following the resolution of many wartime legal disputes.

February 16-24, 1786 – Thursday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For over a week, Congress failed to achieve quorum, once again demonstrating the inefficiencies and challenges in governance under the Articles of Confederation.

February 25, 1786 – Saturday – Receives Reports on Postal Plan and Fiscal Estimates

• Reports were submitted on a proposed postal plan in cooperation with France, as well as on the fiscal estimates for the year, highlighting Congress's focus on establishing efficient postal and financial systems.

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March 1786

March 3, 1786 – Friday – Repeats Call for Trade Regulation

• Congress renewed its call for the states to grant it the authority to regulate trade, recognizing that individual states' trade policies were harming the overall economic stability of the nation.

March 7, 1786 – Tuesday – Appoints Committee on New Jersey Fiscal Refusal

• A committee was appointed to meet with the New Jersey Assembly, which had refused to comply with the 1786 Continental requisition. This was part of a broader issue where many states were not contributing their required financial support to Congress.

March 10, 1786 – Friday – Rejects New York Appeal for Extension of Claims Period

• Congress rejected an appeal from New York to extend the time allowed for state citizens to submit Continental claims, reflecting Congress’s need to adhere to strict deadlines.

March 14, 1786 – Tuesday – Clarifies Oaths for Continental Officeholders

• Congress clarified the form of oaths that would be required for those holding Continental offices, ensuring that all officers were held to a uniform standard of loyalty and duty.

March 17-18, 1786 – Friday-Saturday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Once again, Congress failed to achieve a quorum, stalling legislative progress.

March 21, 1786 – Tuesday – Receives Report on Military Court-Martial Punishments

• A report was presented on the use of capital punishment in military courts-martial, reflecting Congress’s attention to military discipline and justice.

March 22, 1786 – Wednesday – New Jersey Reverses Opposition to Requisition

• It was reported that New Jersey had reversed its opposition to the 1786 Continental requisition, marking a victory for Congress in its efforts to secure financial support from the states.

March 24, 1786 – Friday – Appoints Commissioner for Settling Department Accounts

• Congress appointed a single commissioner to consolidate the settlement of accounts for the five great departments: the clothier, commissary, hospital, marine, and quartermaster departments.

March 27, 1786 – Monday – Orders Arrest of Maj. John Wyllis

• Major John Wyllis was ordered to be arrested for his role in the execution of army deserters, indicating Congress's concern with maintaining proper military justice procedures.

March 29, 1786 – Wednesday – Foreign Affairs Report on British Frontier Posts

• The Secretary of Foreign Affairs was directed to provide a report on the ongoing negotiations with Britain regarding their evacuation of frontier posts, an unresolved issue from the Treaty of Paris (1783).

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April 1786

April 5, 1786 – Wednesday – Report on Barbary Negotiations

• Congress received a report detailing negotiations and other measures being considered to deal with the Barbary powers, who were continuing to capture American ships and sailors in the Mediterranean. This reflected the ongoing challenge the U.S. faced without a strong navy.

April 10, 1786 – Monday – Connecticut Land Cession

• A report was presented concerning Connecticut’s land cession, part of the ongoing process of resolving state land claims in the western territories. This was critical for organizing the newly acquired western lands and establishing federal control.

April 12, 1786 – Wednesday – Treasury Report on Coinage

• The Board of Treasury submitted a report on the development of a standardized system of coinage. This was a key step in establishing a stable national currency, which was necessary to stabilize the economy.

April 19, 1786 – Wednesday – Rejects Massachusetts Request

• Congress rejected a request from Massachusetts for Continental ordnance, reflecting the tensions between states and the central government over the distribution of military supplies and resources.

April 27, 1786 – Thursday – French Decree on Fisheries Bounties

• Congress received and translated a French decree on fisheries bounties, which likely impacted American fisheries and trade, further highlighting the importance of U.S.-French relations in trade matters.

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May 1786

May 2, 1786 – Tuesday – Audience with Cornplanter

• Cornplanter, a chief of the Seneca tribe, and other Seneca leaders met with Congress to discuss the situation of the Seneca and other Iroquois nations, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic efforts with Native American tribes.

May 5, 1786 – Friday – Second Audience with Seneca Chiefs

• A second audience was held with Cornplanter and the Seneca delegation, likely continuing discussions on territorial disputes and peace agreements between the U.S. government and Native American tribes.

May 6, 1786 – Saturday – Quorum Not Met

• Congress failed to achieve quorum, stalling legislative action. This continued to be a recurring issue under the Articles of Confederation, hindering Congress's ability to address pressing national concerns.

May 8, 1786 – Monday – Appointment of Second Commissioner

• A second commissioner was appointed to assist in the settlement of accounts for the five major departments: clothier, commissary, hospital, marine, and quartermaster, ensuring greater oversight of military-related finances.

May 9, 1786 – Tuesday – Western Territory Survey

• The Continental Geographer was directed to continue the survey of the western territory, a vital step in organizing the land for settlement and federal control under the Northwest Ordinance.

May 11, 1786 – Thursday – Debates Connecticut Cession

• Congress began debating the specifics of Connecticut's cession of its western lands, a critical issue in resolving state claims and organizing federal land in the west.

May 12, 1786 – Friday – Declares Navigable Waters Free

• Congress declared that all navigable waters within the territories would be "forever free" to inhabitants and U.S. citizens, ensuring that the federal government maintained control over these crucial waterways for commerce and transportation.

May 15, 1786 – Monday – Nathaniel Gorham Elected Chairman

• Nathaniel Gorham was elected as chairman of Congress, succeeding David Ramsay. As chairman, Gorham presided over the session in the absence of John Hancock, who had resigned.

May 17, 1786 – Wednesday – Ratifies Prussian-American Treaty

• Congress ratified the Prussian-American treaty of commerce, marking another important step in securing international trade agreements for the United States.

May 18, 1786 – Thursday – Georgia-South Carolina Boundary Dispute

• The decision on the boundary dispute between Georgia and South Carolina was postponed to September, reflecting ongoing interstate territorial conflicts.

May 22-25, 1786 – Monday-Thursday – Debates Connecticut Cession

• Congress continued to debate the terms and conditions of Connecticut's cession of its western land claims, a key issue in organizing federal land.

May 26, 1786 – Friday – Conditional Acceptance of Connecticut Cession

• Congress declared its conditional acceptance of Connecticut’s land cession, paving the way for further organization and settlement of western lands.

May 29, 1786 – Monday – Quorum Not Met

• Congress failed to achieve quorum once again, stalling further legislative actions.

May 31, 1786 – Wednesday – Amends Rules to War

• Congress amended the rules governing the conduct of war and received a request from John Jay for a committee to meet with him concerning ongoing negotiations with Diego de Gardoqui, Spain’s representative.

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June 1786

June 5, 1786 – Monday – John Hancock Resigns

• John Hancock formally resigned as President of Congress, and Congress received a report on the state of the military establishment.

Sixth USCA: November 23, 1785

Nathaniel Gorham, USCA President

June 6, 1786 – Tuesday – Nathaniel Gorham Elected President

• Nathaniel Gorham, previously serving as chairman, was formally elected President of Congress following Hancock’s resignation.

June 13-14, 1786 – Tuesday-Wednesday – Quorum Not Met

• Once again, Congress failed to meet quorum, delaying progress on key issues.

June 15, 1786 – Thursday – Reports on Indian Hostilities

• Congress received reports on the possibility of hostilities with Native American tribes and on the state of Continental arsenals and military supplies, reflecting concerns over frontier defense.

June 16, 1786 – Friday – Indian Commissioners' Report

• Indian commissioners were ordered to provide a detailed report on the likelihood of hostilities with Native American tribes in the western territories.

June 19-20, 1786 – Monday-Tuesday – Quorum Not Met

• No quorum was achieved, continuing the trend of inactivity due to poor delegate attendance.

June 21, 1786 – Wednesday – Post Office Ban on Paper Money

• Congress banned the acceptance of paper money by post offices, reflecting ongoing concerns about the instability of paper currency.

June 22, 1786 – Thursday – Troop Reinforcements Ordered

• Troop reinforcements were ordered to the "rapids of the Ohio" to bolster defenses in the western territories amid rising concerns about Native American hostilities.

June 27, 1786 – Tuesday – Court of Appeals Judges to Reconvene

• Congress directed the judges of the Court of Appeals to reconvene on November 6, and reinstated their salaries on a per diem basis to ensure that their work would continue.

June 28, 1786 – Wednesday – Draft Ordinance for Indian Department

• Congress received a draft ordinance aimed at organizing the Indian department, part of ongoing efforts to regulate relations with Native American tribes.

June 30, 1786 – Friday – Responds to Virginia Appeal

• In response to an appeal from Virginia for protection against Native American threats in the west, Congress began considering measures to assist the state.

July 4, 1786 – Tuesday – Independence Day Celebration

• Congress celebrated the tenth anniversary of American independence with ceremonies and events.

July 7, 1786 – Friday – Request for Revision of Virginia Cession

• Congress requested that Virginia revise its land cession to allow for the creation of "not more than five nor less than three" states from the northwest territory, a key issue in organizing the new territories.

July 12, 1786 – Wednesday – Indian Treaty Commissions Revoked

• The commissions of those appointed to negotiate treaties with Native American tribes were revoked, marking a shift in Congress’s approach to relations with the tribes.

July 13, 1786 – Thursday – Territorial Government Plan Recommitted

• The draft plan for governing the western territories was recommitted for further revision, reflecting ongoing debates over how to structure governance in the new territories.

July 21, 1786 – Friday – Indian Affairs Ordinance Debated

• Congress debated the Indian affairs ordinance, which aimed to organize and regulate relations with Native American tribes.

July 24, 1786 – Monday – Second Reading of Indian Affairs Ordinance

• Congress ordered a second reading of the Indian affairs ordinance, moving closer to finalizing this key piece of legislation.

July 27, 1786 – Thursday – New York Impost Act Revision Sought

• Congress sought revisions to New York’s act authorizing the Continental impost, a key revenue-raising measure.

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August 1786

August 1, 1786 – Tuesday – Arsenals and Ordnance Report

• A report on Continental arsenals and military ordnance was presented to Congress, reflecting ongoing concerns about military preparedness.

August 2, 1786 – Wednesday – 1786 Requisition Adopted

• Congress adopted the 1786 requisition, setting the financial contributions expected from each state for the year.

August 3, 1786 – Thursday – West Point Purchase Authorized

• Congress authorized the purchase of West Point, an important military stronghold. They also conferred with the Secretary for Foreign Affairs regarding negotiations with Spain.

August 7, 1786 – Monday – Indian Affairs Ordinance Adopted

• The Indian affairs ordinance was formally adopted, marking a significant step in regulating relations with Native American tribes.

August 8, 1786 – Tuesday – Coinage Standards Adopted

• Congress adopted new standards for coinage and ordered the Board of Treasury to prepare an ordinance for the establishment of a national mint.

August 9, 1786 – Wednesday – Appeal for Southern Land Cessions

• Congress made an appeal to North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia to cede their western lands to the federal government.

August 10, 1786 – Thursday – John Jay’s Spanish Treaty Instructions

• Congress began debating the instructions for John Jay’s negotiations with Spain, particularly concerning the navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

August 14, 1786 – Monday – Pennsylvania Impost Act Revision

• A committee was appointed to meet with the Pennsylvania Assembly to discuss revisions to their act authorizing the Continental impost.

August 16-23, 1786 – Wednesday-Wednesday – Debates on Jay’s Spanish Treaty Instructions

• Congress continued to debate John Jay’s instructions for negotiating the Spanish treaty, which had become a major point of contention due to conflicting national interests.

August 24, 1786 – Thursday – Relief for Moravian Indians Ordered

• Congress ordered relief measures for displaced Moravian Indians, reflecting the humanitarian concerns related to Native American displacement during this period.

August 28, 1786 – Monday – Debates on Jay’s Negotiating Instructions

• Debates over John Jay’s instructions for negotiating with Spain continued, with no resolution in sight.

August 29, 1786 – Tuesday – Repeal of Jay’s Instructions Contested

• By a seven-to-five vote, Congress repealed John Jay’s negotiating instructions, though the decision was contested on the grounds that a nine-vote majority was constitutionally required.

August 30-31, 1786 – Wednesday-Thursday – Further Debates on Repeal of Jay’s Instructions

• Congress continued to debate the controversial repeal of John Jay’s instructions, underscoring the deep divisions within the government over foreign policy and western expansion.

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September 1786

September 1-2, 1786 – Friday-Saturday – Debates on John Jay’s Negotiating Instructions

• Congress resumed its debate on the repeal of John Jay's instructions for negotiating a treaty with Spain. These negotiations were contentious because they involved critical issues like navigation rights on the Mississippi River. Some members favored a compromise with Spain, while others believed such a concession would hurt western expansion and the new nation's sovereignty.

September 4, 1786 – Monday – South Carolina-Georgia Boundary Dispute

• Congress convened agents to appoint a court that would hear the boundary dispute between South Carolina and Georgia. This was a significant interstate conflict, typical of the territorial disagreements during the early years of the republic.

September 5, 1786 – Tuesday – Settlement of Pennsylvania Fiscal Claim

• Congress authorized the settlement of a fiscal claim made by Pennsylvania, marking an effort to resolve financial disputes and maintain harmony between the states.

September 11, 1786 – Monday – South Carolina Appeals for Congressional Intervention

• South Carolina formally appealed to Congress to intervene in its boundary dispute with Georgia. This reflected the persistent interstate territorial tensions and the need for federal arbitration under the Articles of Confederation.

September 12, 1786 – Tuesday – John Jay's Consular Convention Report

• Congress received a report from Secretary for Foreign Affairs John Jay concerning the consular convention with France. This report dealt with the regulation of consular activities between the two nations and highlighted the importance of formalizing diplomatic and trade relations with European powers.

September 13, 1786 – Wednesday – Judges Selected for South Carolina-Georgia Boundary Dispute

• Judges were selected to hear the boundary dispute between South Carolina and Georgia. This step was essential in providing a legal resolution to the territorial disagreement.

September 14, 1786 – Thursday – Connecticut Land Cession Accepted

• Congress accepted Connecticut’s land cession. This was part of the broader movement by several states to cede their western land claims to the federal government, which was critical for organizing the newly acquired territories and ensuring federal authority.

September 18, 1786 – Monday – Continental Requisitions in Paper Money Barred

• Congress decided to bar the payment of Continental requisitions in paper money, reflecting the distrust of paper currency, which was subject to significant inflation and instability during this period. This decision reinforced the push for a more stable monetary system based on specie (gold and silver).

September 20, 1786 – Wednesday – Report on Annapolis Convention

• Congress received the report from the Annapolis Convention, where delegates from several states had gathered to discuss revising the Articles of Confederation, particularly in regard to trade and commerce. The convention ultimately called for a broader Constitutional Convention to be held in Philadelphia the following year.
• Congress also ordered postmasters to accept only specie (gold and silver) for payment of postage, further rejecting the use of unstable paper currency.

September 25, 1786 – Monday – Report on Pennsylvania Assembly Conference

• Congress received a report on the conference between its committee and the Pennsylvania Assembly regarding the state's compliance with Congressional requisitions. This reflected ongoing financial struggles and disputes between the national government and individual states.

September 28, 1786 – Thursday – Continued Debates on John Jay's Instructions

• The debate over John Jay’s instructions for negotiating with Spain continued. The issue remained unresolved as Congress was deeply divided on whether to concede navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

September 29, 1786 – Friday – Territorial Government Ordinance Debates

• Congress debated an ordinance for the government of the western territories. This was a precursor to the eventual Northwest Ordinance, which would be crucial for the organized settlement and governance of the territories west of the Appalachian Mountains.

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October 1786

October 3, 1786 – Tuesday – Thomas Jefferson’s Instructions on French Consular Convention

• Congress provided instructions to Thomas Jefferson, the U.S. minister to France, regarding the renegotiation of the consular convention with France. These instructions aimed to clarify and improve the agreement regulating consular activities between the two nations.

October 4, 1786 – Wednesday – Northwest Ordinance Debates

• The debates over the Northwest Ordinance continued, as Congress worked to finalize a plan for governing the territories. The Northwest Ordinance would later become one of the most significant pieces of legislation passed under the Articles of Confederation.

October 6, 1786 – Friday – James White Elected Indian Superintendent

• Congress elected James White as the superintendent of Indian affairs for the southern region. This role was vital in managing relations with Native American tribes and negotiating treaties as settlers expanded into their lands.

October 10, 1786 – Tuesday – Indian Superintendent’s Instructions

• James White was instructed to confer with the southern states regarding relations with Native American tribes, further illustrating the complexities of frontier expansion and Native American diplomacy.

October 13, 1786 – Friday – Continental Accounts and British Evacuation

• Congress adopted an ordinance for the settlement of the states' Continental accounts and received a report concerning the British response to U.S. requests for the evacuation of frontier posts. The British had been reluctant to abandon certain forts, which created ongoing tensions between the two nations.

October 16, 1786 – Monday – Establishment of a Mint

• Congress adopted an ordinance for establishing a mint, a crucial step toward creating a stable and uniform national currency. This measure was intended to strengthen the economy and replace the chaotic system of state-issued paper money.

October 18, 1786 – Wednesday – Report on Shays’ Rebellion

• Congress received a report from the secretary at war regarding Shays' Rebellion in Massachusetts. The uprising, driven by economic hardship and government debt, highlighted the weaknesses of the national government under the Articles of Confederation in maintaining internal order.

October 21, 1786 – Saturday – Military Expansion in Response to Shays’ Rebellion

• Congress voted to increase the size of the military establishment. Although the official reason was Indian defense, the decision was influenced by concerns over Shays’ Rebellion and the broader unrest in Massachusetts.

October 23, 1786 – Monday – Trade Regulation and Mail Inspection

• Congress issued a new appeal to the states for the authority to regulate trade, a long-standing issue that the Articles of Confederation failed to adequately address. Additionally, Congress authorized the secretary for foreign affairs to inspect the mail for reasons of national security, though members of Congress were exempted from this surveillance.

October 26, 1786 – Thursday – Postal Service Inquiry

• Congress ordered an inquiry into the functioning of the postal service, reflecting the challenges in maintaining communication across the vast new nation.

October 30, 1786 – Monday – Rhode Island Interest Suspension

• Congress authorized the suspension of interest credits on debts held by Rhode Island as a form of retaliation for the state's use of paper money, which had caused financial instability.

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November 1786

November 1-2, 1786 – Wednesday-Thursday – Postal Reform Debates

• Congress debated proposals for reforming the postal system to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

November 3, 1786 – Friday – Adjournment

• Congress adjourned, referring the matters still before them to the new Congress, which was scheduled to convene on the following Monday.

November 6-December 31, 1786 – New Congress Fails to Achieve Quorum

• The new Congress, set to convene under the Articles of Confederation, failed to achieve quorum for the remainder of 1786. This reflected the ongoing governance crisis and the challenges of maintaining effective national leadership under the Articles.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1787

January 1787

January 1-16, 1787 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For the first half of January, Congress was unable to conduct business as it failed to meet the quorum requirements set by the Articles of Confederation. This period highlighted the ongoing difficulty of gathering enough representatives to carry out federal legislative duties.

January 17, 1787 – Wednesday – Achieves Quorum, Seven States Represented

• Congress finally achieved a quorum, with seven states represented, allowing them to officially conduct business.

January 18-31, 1787 – Thursday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Following the brief success of gathering enough delegates on January 17, Congress again struggled to maintain a quorum, stalling any further legislative actions for the rest of the month.

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February 1787

Seventh USCA: February 2, 1787
Arthur St. Clair USCA President

February 2, 1787 – Friday – Elects Arthur St. Clair as President

• After failing to conduct business for the previous few weeks, Congress elected Arthur St. Clair as the new president of Congress, along with Samuel Provost and John Rodgers as chaplains, marking a new phase of leadership.

February 3, 1787 – Saturday – Reads Correspondence

• Congress resumed the reading of important correspondence that had been accumulating since early November 1786, enabling the body to catch up on official communications.

February 5, 1787 – Monday – Orders Fiscal Report

• A report was ordered on the fiscal estimates for 1787, a necessary step for planning the federal budget and determining how to meet the government’s financial obligations.

February 6-9, 1787 – Tuesday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Once again, Congress was unable to achieve quorum, demonstrating the persistent challenges of maintaining effective representation under the Articles of Confederation.

February 12, 1787 – Monday – Committee on Qualifications

• Congress adopted the report of the committee on qualifications, ensuring that the credentials of delegates were in order. Accumulated reports from the Treasury and War Office were also read, addressing ongoing financial and military matters.

February 14, 1787 – Wednesday – Nine States Represented

• For the first time in a long while, nine states were represented, allowing Congress to make significant progress. The draft ordinance for the Post Office was read, and key issues were debated.

February 15, 1787 – Thursday – Mail Delivery Contracts

• Congress authorized the postmaster general to contract for mail delivery services, an important step in improving communication throughout the new nation.

February 19, 1787 – Monday – Lambert Cadwalader Elected Chairman

• With President St. Clair absent, Lambert Cadwalader was elected chairman to ensure the continuity of Congress’s operations.

February 21, 1787 – Wednesday – Call for Philadelphia Convention

• Congress received the report on the Annapolis Convention, which had met the previous year to discuss interstate commerce. Congress responded by resolving to call for a Philadelphia convention to "render the federal Constitution adequate to the exigencies of Government and the preservation of the Union." This would set the stage for the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.

February 22-23, 1787 – Thursday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Despite the progress made earlier in the month, Congress again struggled to gather enough delegates to continue its work.

February 26, 1787 – Monday – Virginia Call for Interstate Commercial Convention

• Congress received a formal call from Virginia for an interstate commercial convention, reflecting the states' desire for federal reform regarding commerce and trade regulation.

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March 1787

March 5-7, 1787 – Monday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• The struggle to maintain quorum continued into March, delaying important decisions.

March 8, 1787 – Thursday – Reaffirms Specie Requirement

• Congress reaffirmed its decision that payments of state quotas to the federal government must be made in specie (gold and silver), a reflection of the economic instability and distrust of paper money.

March 9, 1787 – Friday – Shays' Rebellion and Western Posts

• Congress received a report from Massachusetts on the ongoing Shays' Rebellion and adopted a report concerning the Western posts, underscoring both domestic unrest and ongoing issues with British occupation of American frontier forts.

March 13, 1787 – Tuesday – Military Stores and Commercial Agent in Lisbon

• Congress received a report on military stores and authorized the appointment of an unsalaried commercial agent in Lisbon, demonstrating continued efforts to secure international trade partnerships.

March 23, 1787 – Friday – Reduces Continental Civil List

• In an effort to reduce costs, Congress adopted a measure to reduce the Continental civil list, cutting down on government personnel and expenses.

March 28, 1787 – Wednesday – Debates Continental Property

• Congress debated motions regarding the loan or sale of Continental property as part of ongoing discussions on how to manage national assets and raise revenue.

March 30, 1787 – Friday – Seizure of American Property at Natchez

• Congress received a report on the seizure of American property at Natchez by Spanish forces, reflecting ongoing tensions over territorial control in the Mississippi River region.

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April 1787

April 2, 1787 – Monday – 1787 Fiscal Estimates

• The fiscal estimates for 1787 were submitted, giving Congress a clearer picture of the nation’s financial situation.

April 4, 1787 – Wednesday – Spanish Negotiations

• John Jay was ordered to report on the ongoing negotiations with Spain, particularly concerning issues like navigation rights on the Mississippi River, which was critical for western expansion and trade.

April 5, 1787 – Thursday – Land Sales Plan

• Congress received a report on a plan for land sales, an essential component of federal revenue generation, particularly in light of the recent land cessions by states.

April 9, 1787 – Monday – Troops Discharged Post-Shays’ Rebellion

• Congress ordered the discharge of troops enlisted to suppress Shays’ Rebellion, except for two artillery companies, signaling the end of the federal government’s response to the crisis in Massachusetts.

April 10, 1787 – Tuesday – Federal Capital Location Debate

• Congress debated the location of the federal capital, a contentious issue that would continue for years as various states vied for the prestige and economic benefits of hosting the seat of government.

April 13, 1787 – Friday – Repeal of State Acts Repugnant to Treaty of Peace

• Congress adopted a letter to the states recommending the repeal of all state laws that were repugnant to the treaty of peace with Britain, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international agreements.

April 16-17, 1787 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress again failed to achieve quorum, delaying further legislative action.

April 18, 1787 – Wednesday – Debates Commissioner to Spain

• Congress debated the possibility of sending a commissioner to Spain to resolve ongoing disputes over the Mississippi River and other territorial issues.

April 20, 1787 – Friday – Reports on Spain and Copper Coinage

• John Jay submitted another report on the negotiations with Spain, and Congress also received a committee report on the copper coinage, highlighting ongoing efforts to stabilize the national currency.

April 21, 1787 – Saturday – Copper Coinage and Western Land Sales

• Congress adopted the plan for copper coinage and a plan for the sale of western lands, crucial steps in stabilizing the nation’s economy and encouraging settlement in the new territories.

April 23, 1787 – Monday – Franking Privilege for Convention Delegates

• Congress extended franking privileges (the right to send mail without paying postage) to delegates attending the Philadelphia Convention, showing federal support for the upcoming Constitutional Convention.

April 24, 1787 – Tuesday – Recapture of Fort Vincennes

• Congress ordered the recapture of Fort Vincennes, underscoring ongoing military concerns in the western territories. They also received notification of the peaceful resolution of the Massachusetts-New York land dispute.

April 25, 1787 – Wednesday – North Carolina Protest Against Indian Treaties

• Congress received a protest from North Carolina against federal treaties with Native American tribes, reflecting the tension between state and federal authority over Indian affairs.

April 27, 1787 – Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Once again, Congress failed to achieve quorum, halting further action.

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May 1787

May 1, 1787 – Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• The difficulty of maintaining quorum persisted, further delaying important decisions.

May 2, 1787 – Wednesday – Surplus Continental Arms

• Congress authorized the sale of surplus Continental arms, a measure to raise funds and reduce unnecessary military stores.

May 3, 1787 – Thursday – British Consul Phineas Bond

• Congress received Phineas Bond, the British consul, reflecting ongoing diplomatic relations with Britain despite unresolved tensions from the Revolutionary War.

May 7, 1787 – Monday – Departmental Accounts

• Congress appointed commissioners to settle the accounts of the various departments, continuing efforts to resolve outstanding financial matters.

May 8-10, 1787 – Tuesday-Thursday – Debates and Northwest Ordinance

• Congress debated proposals concerning interstate commercial conventions and the Northwest Ordinance, laying the groundwork for the organization and governance of new territories.

May 11, 1787 – Friday – Mississippi Negotiations with Spain

• Congress debated the negotiations with Spain concerning the navigation of the Mississippi River, a vital issue for western expansion and trade.

May 12-31, 1787 – Saturday-Thursday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Despite the importance of the issues at hand, Congress failed to achieve quorum for the rest of May, stalling progress on critical matters like the Northwest Ordinance.

June 1-29, 1787 – Friday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• The quorum issues continued into June, with Congress unable to gather enough delegates to proceed with its legislative agenda.

July 2-3, 1787 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress was unable to achieve a quorum during the first few days of July, a continuation of the struggles that had plagued its sessions for much of the year.

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July 1787

July 4, 1787 – Wednesday – Achieves Quorum; Elects William Grayson Chairman

• On Independence Day, Congress achieved quorum and elected William Grayson as chairman in the absence of President Arthur St. Clair. They also received a report concerning negotiations with Spain.

July 5, 1787 – Thursday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress quickly reverted to its earlier issues, failing to maintain quorum the day after Independence Day.

July 10, 1787 – Tuesday – Receives Report on Western Lands

• A report was received on the sale of western lands to various land companies, an important issue for the expansion and financial stability of the fledgling United States.

July 11, 1787 – Wednesday – Reads the Northwest Ordinance

• Congress read the Northwest Ordinance, which laid out the process for governing the Northwest Territory. This document would prove to be one of the most significant pieces of legislation passed under the Articles of Confederation. Congress also received reports on the issuance of indents for Continental quotas and on hostilities with Native American tribes.

July 13, 1787 – Friday – Adopts the Northwest Ordinance

• Congress officially adopted the Northwest Ordinance, which provided a framework for the governance and eventual statehood of territories in the Northwest. This ordinance prohibited slavery in the new territories and set a precedent for westward expansion. It remains one of the most significant achievements of Congress under the Articles of Confederation.

July 14, 1787 – Saturday – Orders Report on 1787 Requisition

• Congress requested a report on the 1787 requisition, which was the mechanism for collecting funds from the states to support the national government.

July 18, 1787 – Wednesday – Ratifies Commercial Treaty with Morocco

• A commercial treaty with Morocco was ratified, expanding U.S. trade relationships with foreign nations. Congress also received a report concerning land claims made by southern Native American tribes.

July 19-21, 1787 – Thursday-Saturday – Debates Indian Pacification

• Congress spent several days debating measures to pacify Native American tribes in the southern and western regions of the United States, as hostilities with Indigenous peoples remained a pressing concern for national security and western expansion.

July 20, 1787 – Friday – Instructions for John Adams

• John Adams, the U.S. minister to Britain, was instructed to engage in a convention with Britain regarding violations of the treaty of peace that ended the Revolutionary War. These violations, particularly regarding British occupation of western forts, had continued to strain relations between the two nations.

July 23, 1787 – Monday – Approves Commercial Agents to Morocco

• Congress approved the appointments of commercial agents to Morocco, further solidifying trade relations with the North African state.

July 25, 1787 – Wednesday – Debates Pacification of Western Indians

• Congress debated further measures for the pacification of Native American tribes in the western territories, recognizing that peace with Indigenous peoples was essential for the nation's westward expansion and security.

July 26, 1787 – Thursday – Postal Contracts and Foreign Loans

• Congress authorized the Post Office to sign new postal contracts and received a report on foreign loans, indicating ongoing efforts to stabilize the nation’s finances and improve communication infrastructure.

July 27, 1787 – Friday – Confederacy Against Barbary States

• Congress ordered a report on forming "a Confederacy with the powers of Europe" to combat the threat posed by the Barbary States, who were notorious for their piracy and attacks on American shipping in the Mediterranean. They also instructed Thomas Jefferson on the consular convention with France.

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August 1787

August 3, 1787 – Friday – Debates Southern Indian Affairs

• Congress continued to debate matters related to southern Native American tribes, focusing on how to establish peaceful relations and prevent further conflict.

August 6-8, 1787 – Monday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress again struggled to maintain quorum, halting progress on important matters.

August 9, 1787 – Thursday – South Carolina Land Cession

• Congress accepted South Carolina’s cession of land to the federal government, which was crucial for the organization and eventual sale of western lands. A report on northern Native American affairs was also received.

August 10-31, 1787 – Friday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For the remainder of August, Congress again failed to achieve quorum, stalling progress on numerous legislative issues.

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September 1787

September 3-19, 1787 – Monday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Continuing from August, Congress remained unable to achieve quorum for much of September, delaying any formal actions.

September 20, 1787 – Thursday – Receives Report of Philadelphia Constitutional Convention

• Congress received the final report from the Philadelphia Convention, which had drafted the new U.S. Constitution. This marked the beginning of the formal process of submitting the Constitution to the states for ratification.

September 21, 1787 – Friday – Reelects Treasury Commissioners

• Congress reelected Arthur Lee, Walter Livingston, and Samuel Osgood as treasury commissioners, a sign of continuity in the federal government’s financial oversight. They also reduced the civil list, cutting government expenditures.

September 24, 1787 – Monday – Accepts John Adams' Retirement

• Congress accepted the impending retirement of John Adams as U.S. minister to Britain, effective after February 24, 1788. They also received a report on protests from the Netherlands regarding U.S. diplomatic actions.

September 26-27, 1787 – Wednesday-Thursday – Debates Constitution

• Congress began formal debates on the Constitution submitted by the Philadelphia Convention, signaling the start of the ratification process.
• The delegates were now faced with the prospect of either discarding, revising or sending the new constitution with no changes to the States for ratification. Critics of the Constitution wanted it transmitted to the state legislatures with an indication that the Convention had violated Article XIII of the Articles of Confederation and the congressional resolution of 21 February 1787.    

·       Supporters of the “Plan of The New Federal Government,”[i] such as Rufus King, James Madison, and Nathaniel Gorham, contended that Congress should approve the Constitution without alterations before submitting it to the state legislatures. They also recommended that the legislatures convene special conventions specifically to review and deliberate on the Constitution.

• Richard Henry Lee proposed amendments to the U.S. Constitution, on September 27, 1787, which were aimed to address concerns regarding individual liberties and the distribution of governmental power. He emphasized that the Constitution should include a Bill of Rights, explicitly safeguarding essential freedoms and ensuring a fair administration of justice.

·       Congress refused to debate the substance of Lee’s amendments and rejected his proposal. Nor were Lee’s motion and amendments even recorded in the Journals.

September 28, 1787 – Friday – Submits Constitution to the States

·       On the 28^th of September Congress reached a unanimous compromise.  The resolution, strongly shaped by George Washington's influence and preferences, fully adhered to the Convention's recommendation and was recorded in the Journals as follows:

·       “Congress having received the report of the Convention lately assembled in Philadelphia: Resolved Unanimously that the said Report with the resolutions and letter accompanying the same be transmitted to the several legislatures in Order to be submitted to a convention of Delegates chosen in each state by the people thereof in conformity to the resolves of the Convention made and provided in that case.”

September 29, 1787 – Saturday – Report on John Paul Jones' Prize Money

• Congress received a report on prize money earned by John Paul Jones, the famous naval commander, for his victories during the Revolutionary War. They also reviewed the requisition for 1787, continuing efforts to finance the government.

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October 1787

 
October 2, 1787 – Tuesday – Report on Foreign Debt

• Congress received a report detailing the status of the foreign debt owed by the United States, a pressing issue that continued to burden the nation’s finances.

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October 3, 1787 – Wednesday – Civil List and Military for Northwest Territory

• Congress set the civil list and the military establishment for the newly organized Northwest Territory, ensuring that the region would have the necessary governance and defense.

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October 5, 1787 – Friday – Arthur St. Clair Elected Governor of Northwest Territory

• Arthur St. Clair was elected governor of the Northwest Territory, while Winthrop Sargent was appointed as secretary. Congress also resolved to hold a treaty with the western Native American tribes to secure peace and stability in the region.

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October 8, 1787 – Monday – Massachusetts-New York Land Dispute

• Congress terminated federal proceedings in the Massachusetts-New York land dispute, ending an ongoing conflict between the two states over territorial claims.

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October 11, 1787 – Thursday – Dutch Loan and John Paul Jones

• Congress ratified John Adams' contract for a Dutch loan and authorized the use of indents for loan office interest in payment of Continental quotas. They also directed the payment of prize money received by John Paul Jones.

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October 12, 1787 – Friday – Ransom of Captives at Algiers

• Congress authorized the payment of ransom for American captives held by Barbary pirates in Algiers, reflecting ongoing challenges with the Barbary States. Thomas Jefferson was reelected as minister to France.

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October 13, 1787 – Saturday – Arrest of Lt. John Sullivan

• Congress ordered the arrest of Lt. John Sullivan for actions that jeopardized U.S. relations with Spain. They also debated Virginia's infringement of U.S. treaty obligations.

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October 15, 1787 – Monday – Postal Contracts

• Postal contracts were authorized, ensuring continued communication infrastructure across the new nation.

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October 16, 1787 – Tuesday – Northwest Territory Judges

• John Armstrong, Jr., Samuel Holden Parsons, and James Mitchell Varnum were elected as judges of the Northwest Territory. Congress also commended John Paul Jones for his naval service.

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October 17, 1787 – Wednesday – Sale of Carlisle Barracks

• Congress authorized the sale of the Carlisle barracks, a military facility, to raise funds.

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October 18-19, 1787 – Thursday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Once again, quorum issues halted Congress’s progress.

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October 20, 1787 – Saturday – North Carolina and Georgia Land Cessions

• Congress issued appeals for North Carolina and Georgia to cede western lands to the federal government. They also reduced postal rates to facilitate communication.

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October 21, 1787 – Sunday – Ohio Company Land Purchase

• Congress authorized the sale of one million acres of land to the Ohio Company, which was a key step in encouraging settlement of the Northwest Territory.

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October 22, 1787 – Monday – Military Bounty Lands

• Congress set aside lands for military bounties, providing land grants to soldiers in return for their service.

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October 26, 1787 – Friday – Indian Treaty Negotiations

• Congress adopted instructions for holding negotiations with western Native American tribes, as the need for peaceful relations remained a priority.

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October 29-31, 1787 – Monday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Quorum issues again plagued Congress, preventing further legislative action.

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November 1-2, 1787 – Thursday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress continued to struggle to convene a quorum.

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November 5, 1787 – Monday – New Congress Assembles

• A new Congress assembled, with only five delegates from two states represented. This new session failed to achieve quorum to convene as required by the Articles of Confederation.

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November 6-30, 1787 – Tuesday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For the remainder of November, Congress was unable to achieve quorum, effectively stalling government operations.

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December 3-31, 1787 – Monday-Monday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

·      Congress failed to achieve quorum throughout December, marking the end of a challenging year in which quorum issues consistently hampered legislative progress.

·      December 7, 1787, Delaware ratifies the Constitution of 1787

·      December 12, 1787, Pennsylvania ratifies the Constitution of 1787

·      December 18, 1787, New Jersey ratifies the Constitution of 1787

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[i] Smith, Robert a Philadelphia, issued a hastily typeset broadside dated September 17, with spelling and punctuation errors, titled " Plan for The New Federal Government" that included the text of the proposed new Constitution.  The printer, Robert Smith Jr., established himself in Philadelphia in 1783 (see Brown and Brown, A Directory of the Book-Arts and Book Trade in Philadelphia to 1820, p.111). In February 1787, Smith launched the tri-weekly Evening Chronicle, which became a semi-weekly with the issue of 7 August (Brigham, 2:904). According to Brigham, Smith took on a partner, James Prange, and from November 1, the firm operated as Robert Smith and James Prange. This effectively narrows the possible date of the present edition to between 17 September and 1 November 1787. But it is a virtual certainty that Smith's edition was issued very close to 17 September. Logically, Smith would have gone to press with the historic document as soon as the new plan was available to be set in type. Even a week later, the new plan would have been cold, essentially unsaleable news to Philadelphians.

USCA Journals – United States of America - 1788

January 1788

January 1-16, 1788 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• For the first half of January, Congress was unable to conduct business as it failed to meet the quorum requirements set by the Articles of Confederation. This period highlighted the ongoing difficulty of gathering enough representatives to carry out federal legislative duties.

January 1-19, 1788 – Tuesday-Saturday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress struggled to convene a quorum at the start of the year, continuing a trend that had plagued the legislative body under the Articles of Confederation.
• January 2, 1788 Georgia ratifies the Constitution of 1787
• January 9, 1788 Connecticut ratifies the Constitution of 1787

January 21, 1788 – Monday – Convenes Seven States Represented

• Finally, after weeks of inactivity, Congress convened with representatives from seven states, allowing it to resume official business.

Eighth USCA: January 21, 1788
 CyrusGriffin, USCA President

January 22, 1788 – Tuesday – Elects Cyrus Griffin President

• Cyrus Griffin was elected president of the Congress, succeeding Arthur St. Clair in the role.

January 23-31, 1788 – Wednesday-Thursday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Despite the election of a new president, Congress again failed to maintain quorum for the remainder of January, halting progress on legislative matters.

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February 1788

February 1, 1788 – Friday – Reviews Backlog of Reports

• Congress began reviewing a backlog of reports and correspondence accumulated during the extended periods without quorum.

February 5, 1788 – Tuesday – Receives Massachusetts-New York Boundary Report

• Congress received a report on the survey of the boundary between Massachusetts and New York, a matter of ongoing territorial dispute between the two states.

February 6-9, 1788 – Wednesday-Saturday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Once again, quorum was not maintained, stalling further legislative action.
• February 6, 1788, Massachusetts ratifies the Constitution of 1787

February 12, 1788 – Tuesday – Authorizes Issuance of Sea Letters

• Congress authorized the Secretary for Foreign Affairs to issue sea letters, documents allowing American ships safe passage and recognition under international law.

February 14, 1788 – Thursday – Sets Date for Reception of New French Minister

• Congress scheduled a date to formally receive the new French minister, Comte de Moustier, signaling the ongoing importance of diplomatic relations with France.

February 19, 1788 – Tuesday – Elects John Cleves Symmes Judge of Northwest Territory

• John Cleves Symmes was elected as a judge for the Northwest Territory, part of the governance structure established by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787.

February 25, 1788 – Monday – Debates Appointment of Superintendent of Indian Affairs

• Congress engaged in a debate over the appointment of a superintendent for Indian affairs in the southern department, reflecting the ongoing need to manage relations with Native American tribes.

February 26, 1788 – Tuesday – Audience for Comte de Moustier

• Congress held a formal audience to welcome Comte de Moustier, the newly appointed French minister to the United States, furthering diplomatic ties with America's primary ally.

February 28, 1788 – Thursday – Receives Treasury Report on Foreign Debt

• A report from the Treasury was presented, outlining the state of the foreign debt owed by the United States, a continuing concern for the young nation's financial stability.

February 29, 1788 – Friday – Appoints Chaplains and Superintendent of Indian Affairs

• Samuel Provost and John Rodgers were appointed as chaplains of Congress. Richard Winn was appointed superintendent of Indian affairs for the southern department. Congress also debated a motion regarding Kentucky statehood.

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March 1788

March 4, 1788 – Tuesday – Debates Kentucky Statehood

• Congress began debating Kentucky’s petition for statehood in committee of the whole. This marked a significant moment as the expansion of the Union was considered.

March 6, 1788 – Thursday – Receives Reports on Western Land Issues

• Reports on the claims of French settlers in the Illinois country and surveys of western lands were presented, highlighting the complexity of land disputes and western expansion.

March 10-11, 1788 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress was once again unable to achieve quorum, stalling further discussion on key issues.

March 12, 1788 – Wednesday – Receives Report on Military Bounty Lands

• Congress received a report on military bounty lands, which involved land grants promised to soldiers in exchange for their service during the Revolutionary War.

March 18, 1788 – Tuesday – Communications on Indian Affairs

• Congress received communications concerning ongoing Indian affairs, an issue that required careful management as the United States expanded into Native American territories.

March 19-27, 1788 – Wednesday-Thursday – Debates Western Land Ordinance Amendment

• Congress debated amendments to the Western Land Ordinance, focusing on how to manage and organize the vast western territories for settlement and statehood.

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April 30, 1788

March 31-April 30, 1788 – Monday-Wednesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress again struggled to achieve quorum for the entire month of April, preventing any substantial progress on legislative matters.
• April 28, 1788, Maryland ratifies the Constitution of 1787

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May 1788

May 1, 1788 – Thursday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Quorum issues persisted into the beginning of May, continuing to delay important decisions.

May 2, 1788 – Friday – Receives Treasury and War Office Reports

• Congress received a Treasury report on a proposed Dutch loan, as well as three War Office reports on Indian affairs, emphasizing the ongoing fiscal and security concerns facing the government.

May 5, 1788 – Monday – Receives Reports on Western Land Issues

• Reports on various issues related to western lands were presented to Congress, continuing the focus on the organization and settlement of these territories.

May 8, 1788 – Thursday – Elects Commissioners for Wartime Accounts

• Congress elected Jonathan Burrall and Benjamin Walker as commissioners responsible for settling the accounts of the five wartime departments, ensuring that financial records from the Revolutionary War were properly reconciled.

May 20, 1788 – Tuesday – Authorizes Fortnightly Posts

• Congress authorized the establishment of a fortnightly postal service between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, an important step in improving communication across the growing nation.

May 21, 1788 – Wednesday – Receives Treasury Report on Coinage

• A Treasury report on coinage was presented, addressing the nation’s need for a stable and uniform currency.

May 22, 1788 – Thursday – Orders Suits for Outstanding Continental Accounts

• Congress directed the initiation of legal proceedings to collect outstanding accounts owed to the Continental government, an essential step in addressing the ongoing fiscal shortfall.
• May 23, 1788, South Carolina ratifies the Constitution of 1787

May 26, 1788 – Monday – Reports on Cherokee Treaty Violations

• Congress received a report from the War Department on settlers violating the treaty rights of the Cherokee Nation, highlighting the tensions between settlers and Native American tribes in the southern territories.

May 27-29, 1788 – Tuesday-Thursday – Debates Western Land Ordinance Amendment

• Further debates occurred on amending the Western Land Ordinance, focusing on the administration and settlement of these vast territories.

May 30, 1788 – Friday – Debates Kentucky Statehood

• Congress resumed its debate on Kentucky statehood in committee of the whole.

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June 1788

June 2, 1788 – Monday – Report Recommending Kentucky Statehood

• The committee of the whole presented a report recommending the admission of Kentucky as a state.

June 3, 1788 – Tuesday – Elects Grand Committee on Kentucky Statehood

• A grand committee was elected to deliberate further on Kentucky's statehood petition, moving the issue closer to resolution.

 

June 5, 1788 – Thursday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress was unable to maintain quorum once again, delaying progress on Kentucky’s statehood and other matters.

June 6, 1788 – Friday – Survey of New York-Pennsylvania Boundary

• Congress authorized a survey of the New York-Pennsylvania boundary, preparing for the possibility of granting Pennsylvania greater access to Lake Erie.

June 9, 1788 – Monday – Orders Treasury to Submit Fiscal Estimates

• The Treasury Department was directed to submit fiscal estimates for the 1788-1789 fiscal year, crucial for the budgeting process.

June 12, 1788 – Thursday – Report on Illinois French Settlers

• A report was presented regarding the land reserve for French settlers in the Illinois country, addressing their claims and integration into the broader territorial framework.

June 13, 1788 – Friday – French Protest Virginia Harboring Pirate

• Congress responded to a French protest concerning Virginia’s harboring of a French pirate, signaling ongoing diplomatic challenges.

June 17, 1788 – Tuesday – Report on Manpower and Recruitment

• The War Office submitted a report concerning manpower and recruitment, underscoring the ongoing need for defense personnel in the western territories.

June 18, 1788 – Wednesday – Report Opposes State Inspection of Mails

• A report opposing state inspection of the mails was received, defending the integrity of the federal postal system.

June 19, 1788 – Thursday – Debates Western Land Ordinance Amendment

• Further debates were held regarding amendments to the Western Land Ordinance.

June 20, 1788 – Friday – Elects Joseph Martin Agent to the Cherokees

• Joseph Martin was elected as the Continental agent to the Cherokee Nation, an important role in maintaining relations with Native American tribes in the South.
• June 21, 1788, New Hampshire ratifies the Constitution of 1787

June 24, 1788 – Tuesday – Extension for Continental Claims

• Congress authorized a three-month extension for the submission of Continental claims, providing additional time for individuals and states to settle outstanding accounts.

June 25, 1788 – Wednesday – Abolishes Inspector of Continental Troops

• Congress abolished the office of inspector of Continental troops, signaling a reduction in the federal military establishment as tensions decreased.
• June 25, 1788, Virginia ratifies the Constitution of 1787

June 27, 1788 – Friday – Debates Georgia-Creek Indian Affairs

• Congress debated a report on the tense situation between Georgia and the Creek Nation, highlighting ongoing conflicts in the southern territories.

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July 1788

July 2, 1788 – Wednesday – Ratification of the U.S. Constitution and Debates Western Land Ordinance

• Congress received notification of the ratification of the U.S. Constitution by New Hampshire, the ninth state to do so, effectively ensuring the new government framework would take effect. 
• Congress resumed debates on the Western Land Ordinance

July 3, 1788 – Thursday – Postpones Kentucky Statehood

• In light of the new Constitution, Congress postponed further action on Kentucky statehood until the government established under the new Constitution could begin proceedings.

July 7-8, 1788 – Monday-Tuesday – Debates Western Land Ordinance

• Congress continued debating the Western Land Ordinance, working out the complexities of managing western expansion.

July 9, 1788 – Wednesday – Refers Fiscal Estimates to Committee

• Fiscal estimates were referred to a committee, and Congress adopted a “supplement” to the Western Land Ordinance, further refining the legislation guiding western settlement.

July 14, 1788 – Monday – Debates Report on Implementing the Constitution

• Congress began debating a report on how to implement the newly ratified Constitution, setting the stage for the transition to a stronger federal government.

July 15, 1788 – Tuesday – Rejects Georgia Land Cession Terms

• Congress rejected the terms of Georgia's land cession but accepted responsibility for defending the southwestern frontier.

July 17, 1788 – Thursday – Resumes Western Land Surveys

• Congress directed the resumption of western land surveys and rejected a proposed Virginia land reserve for military bounties.

July 21, 1788 – Monday – Receives Report on Army Manpower Needs

• A report was received detailing the manpower needs of the Continental Army, reflecting the ongoing requirement for a standing force.

July 25, 1788 – Friday – Deploys Troops to Pacify Luzerne County, Pa.

• Congress ordered the deployment of Continental troops to pacify Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, where unrest had broken out.

July 28, 1788 – Monday – Debates Constitution Implementation

• Congress resumed debate on the report concerning the implementation of the U.S. Constitution, including the establishment of the new government framework.
• July 26, 1788, New York ratifies the Constitution of 1787

July 30, 1788 – Wednesday – Rejects Capital in New York

• A motion to establish the national capital in New York was rejected, with Congress still undecided on a permanent seat for the federal government.

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August 1788

August 1, 1788 – Friday – Extends Term of Northern Superintendent of Indian Affairs

• Congress extended the term of the northern superintendent of Indian affairs, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage relations with Native American tribes in the northern territories.

August 4, 1788 – Monday – Extends Term of Southern Superintendent of Indian Affairs

• Similar to the northern office, the term of the southern superintendent of Indian affairs was also extended, reflecting the importance of maintaining diplomatic ties and managing conflicts with southern tribes.

August 5-6, 1788 – Tuesday-Wednesday – Debates Motions on the Location of the Capital

• Congress resumed debate on the issue of where the national capital should be located, a contentious topic that had significant political implications as different states and regions vied for this distinction.

August 7, 1788 – Thursday – Debates Status of Delegates from States That Have Not Ratified the Constitution

• Congress discussed the status of delegates from states that had yet to ratify the U.S. Constitution, raising questions about their role and participation in the legislative process under the new government framework.

August 12, 1788 – Tuesday – Plans Mobilization of Frontier Militia Against Western Indians

• In response to ongoing conflicts, Congress planned the mobilization of frontier militia to defend against attacks from Western Indian tribes, underscoring the instability on the frontier.

August 13, 1788 – Wednesday – Debates Report on Implementing the Constitution

• Congress continued to debate the implementation of the U.S. Constitution, focusing on how to transition from the Articles of Confederation to the new constitutional government.

August 20, 1788 – Wednesday – Adopts 1788 Requisition

• Congress formally adopted the 1788 requisition, an annual call for funds from the states to support the operations of the federal government.

August 26, 1788 – Tuesday – Debates Constitution Implementation; Seeks Spanish Cooperation for Apprehending Fugitive Slaves

• While continuing to debate the implementation of the Constitution, Congress also sought Spanish cooperation in apprehending fugitive slaves fleeing to Spanish-controlled Florida, an early instance of diplomatic engagement regarding slavery.

August 28, 1788 – Thursday – Revises George Morgan Associates Western Land Contract

• Congress revised the western land contract with George Morgan and associates, a significant move in managing the sale and settlement of land in the western territories.

August 29, 1788 – Friday – Confirms Land Titles of French Settlers in the Illinois Country

• Congress confirmed the land titles of French settlers in the Illinois country, further formalizing the rights of those who had settled the western territories under French rule before the U.S. took control.

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September 1788

September 1, 1788 – Monday – Condemns Settler Encroachments on Cherokee Lands

• Congress issued a condemnation of settler encroachments on Cherokee lands, reflecting ongoing tensions between American settlers and Native American tribes over land rights.

September 2, 1788 – Tuesday – Debates Constitution Implementation

• Congress resumed debate on the implementation of the U.S. Constitution, continuing the critical work of transitioning to the new government framework.

September 3, 1788 – Wednesday – Reserves Ohio Lands for Christian Delaware Indians; Rejects Capital at Annapolis

• Congress reserved certain lands in Ohio for Christian Delaware Indians as part of its policies towards Native American tribes. Additionally, a motion to establish the capital at Annapolis was rejected.

September 4, 1788 – Thursday – Debates Constitution Implementation; Confirms Pennsylvania Land Contract

• Congress continued to discuss how to implement the Constitution while confirming a land contract that gave Pennsylvania a large tract of land bordering Lake Erie.

September 8, 1788 – Monday – Receives John Jay's Report on Mississippi Negotiations

• John Jay, Secretary for Foreign Affairs, presented a report on the ongoing negotiations with Spain concerning the Mississippi River, a critical issue for western settlement and trade.

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September 13, 1788 – Saturday – Adopts Plan for Implementing the Constitution

• Congress officially adopted a plan for implementing the U.S. Constitution, setting the stage for the transition to the new government.
• “Whereas the Convention assembled in Philadelphia pursuant to the resolution of Congress of the 21st of Feby 1787 did on the 17th of Sept in the same year report to the United States in Congress assembled a constitution for the people of the United States, Whereupon Congress on the 28 of the same Sept did resolve unanimously " That the said report with the resolutions & letter accompanying the same be transmitted to the several legislatures in order to be submitted to a convention of Delegates chosen in each state by the people thereof in conformity to the resolves of the convention made and provided in that case " And whereas the constitution so reported by the Convention and by Congress transmitted to the several legislatures has been ratified in the manner therein declared to be sufficient for the establishment of the same and such ratifications duly authenticated have been received by Congress and are filed in the Office of the Secretary therefore Resolved That the first Wednesday in Jany next be the day for appointing Electors in the several states, which before the said day shall have ratified the said Constitution; that the first Wednesday in feby next be the day for the electors to assemble in their respective states and vote for a president; And that the first Wednesday in March next be the time and the present seat of Congress the place for commencing proceedings under the said constitution”

September 16, 1788 – Tuesday – Recommends States Ban Importation of Felons

• Congress recommended that states ban the importation of convicted felons as part of efforts to regulate immigration and maintain public order.

September 18-29, 1788 – Thursday-Monday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress repeatedly failed to achieve a quorum during this period, hampering its ability to conduct official business.

September 30, 1788 – Tuesday – Receives Treasury Department Inquiry Report

• Congress received a report on an inquiry into the Treasury Department, reflecting ongoing efforts to maintain oversight of federal finances.

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October 1788

October 1, 1788 – Wednesday – Rejects Silas Deane Settlement of Beaumarchais' Accounts

• Congress rejected a proposed settlement of the accounts of Silas Deane with Beaumarchais, a French arms supplier during the Revolutionary War, citing concerns over the financial arrangements.

October 2, 1788 – Thursday – Receives Report on War Department Inquiry

• A report on an inquiry into the War Department was received, underscoring the need for accountability in military expenditures and operations.

On Monday, October 6th, 1788, the USCA vacated the old New York City Hall  and six States assembled in the Department of Foreign Affairs former offices at 95 Broadway.  The USCA Journals report: 

October 6-7, 1788 – Monday-Tuesday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• Congress again failed to achieve quorum, delaying further legislative action.

October 8, 1788 – Wednesday – Communications on Indian Relations in Western Territory

• Congress received communications regarding ongoing issues with Native American relations in the western territories, which were critical as settlers continued to push westward.

October 10, 1788 – Friday – Suspends Work of Commissioners on Continental Accounts; Final Session Under Articles of Confederation

• Congress suspended the work of the commissioners tasked with settling state Continental accounts, and adjourned what would become the final session under the Articles of Confederation, marking the end of an era.

October 13-31, 1788 – Monday-Friday – Fails to Achieve Quorum

• From October 13 to the end of the month, Congress failed to achieve quorum, reflecting the challenges of the Articles of Confederation's decentralized system as the nation prepared to transition to the new Constitution.

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Ninth USCA: Fails to Achieve Quorum

November 1788

November 3, 1788 – Monday – New Congress Fails to Achieve Quorum

• A new Congress attempted to convene as prescribed by the Articles of Confederation, but only two delegates, Benjamin Contee from Maryland and Hugh Williamson from North Carolina, attended, resulting in the failure to form a quorum.

November 15, 1788 – Saturday – Cyrus Griffin Attends

• Cyrus Griffin of Virginia attended, but a quorum was still not achieved, continuing the legislative deadlock.

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December 1788

December 1, 1788 – Monday – John Dawson from Virginia Attends

• John Dawson from Virginia attended Congress, joining the small number of delegates present, but quorum was still not achieved.

December 6, 1788 – Saturday – Nicholas Eveleigh from South Carolina Attends

• Nicholas Eveleigh from South Carolina joined the assembled delegates, but Congress remained unable to form a quorum.

December 11, 1788 – Thursday – Jonathan Dayton from New Jersey Attends

• Jonathan Dayton from New Jersey attended, but quorum continued to elude Congress, stalling any significant progress.

December 15, 1788 – Monday – Thomas Tudor Tucker from South Carolina Attends

• Thomas Tudor Tucker from South Carolina attended, but with too few delegates present, Congress again failed to achieve quorum.

December 30, 1788 – Tuesday – Samuel A. Otis from Massachusetts Attends

• Samuel A. Otis from Massachusetts joined the assembly, but Congress once again failed to achieve a quorum, closing out the year with little to no legislative activity.

 

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USCA Journals – United States of America - 1788/1789

January 1789

January 1, 1789 – Thursday – James R. Reid from Pennsylvania and Robert Barnwell from South Carolina Attend

• James R. Reid from Pennsylvania and Robert Barnwell from South Carolina attended Congress, marking the continued attempt to keep Congress functional as the new Constitution was set to take effect.

January 8, 1789 – Thursday – Mr. A. Clarke from New Jersey Attends

• A. Clarke from New Jersey joined the assembly, but with the impending transition to the new government under the Constitution, the Continental Congress struggled to maintain quorum.

January 10, 1789 – Saturday – Mr. T. Coxe from Pennsylvania Attends

• T. Coxe from Pennsylvania attended, contributing to the diminishing activity of the Congress as it approached its final days under the Articles of Confederation.

January 26, 1789 – Monday – Mr. Nathaniel Gorham from Massachusetts Attends

• Nathaniel Gorham, a former President of Congress, joined the assembly, but with the impending shift to the new federal government, little significant business was conducted.

January 29, 1789 – Thursday – Mr. George Thatcher from Massachusetts Attends

• George Thatcher from Massachusetts attended, further attempting to maintain the appearance of a functioning Congress despite the dwindling numbers of delegates.

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February 1789
February 6, 1789 – Friday – Mr. D. Ross from Maryland Attends

• D. Ross from Maryland attended Congress, continuing the slow wind-down of the Confederation government.

February 12, 1789 – Thursday – Mr. J. Gardner from Rhode Island Attends

• J. Gardner from Rhode Island attended, but quorum was still not achieved as the Continental Congress neared the end of its existence.

February 18, 1789 – Wednesday – Mr. D. Gelston from New York Attends

• D. Gelston from New York joined Congress, with little official business taking place as attention increasingly shifted to the preparations for the new government under the Constitution.

February 19, 1789 – Thursday – Mr. Nicholas Gilman from New Hampshire Attends

• Nicholas Gilman from New Hampshire attended, but as the end of the Confederation period approached, the Congress remained largely inactive.

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March 1789

March 2, 1789 – Monday – Mr. Philip Pell from New York Attends

• Philip Pell from New York attended, marking one of the final days of activity for the Confederation Congress before the Constitution took full effect.

March 3, 1789 – Tuesday – Articles of Confederation Expire

• At sunset on March 3, 1789, a cannon was fired thirteen times from Federal Fort, opposite Bowling Green in New York, symbolizing the end of the Articles of Confederation. This was the last official day of the United States in Congress Assembled (USCA).
• Charles Thomson, who had served as the Secretary of the Continental Congress and later the USCA for 15 years, concluded his service on this day. The Articles of Confederation formally expired, giving way to the new government framework established under the Constitution.

March 4, 1789 – Wednesday – Constitution of 1787 Comes Into Effect

• On March 4, 1789, the Constitution of the United States, drafted in 1787, officially took effect. A new era of American governance began, with the Articles of Confederation replaced by a stronger federal system under the Constitution.
• Guns were fired eleven times in honor of the eleven states that had adopted the Constitution by this time. Rhode Island and North Carolina had not yet ratified the Constitution and were, for the moment, considered independent entities, akin to separate nations like England and France.

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July 25, 1789 – Saturday – Secretary Charles Thomson Delivers Papers to New Federal Government

• On July 25, 1789, Secretary Charles Thomson formally delivered the papers and records of the Confederation Congress to the new federal government. This act marked the final administrative transition from the old Congress under the Articles of Confederation to the new constitutional government.

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This period marks the conclusion of the USCA under the Articles of Confederation and the historic transition to the U.S. Constitution, which brought about a new system of governance. The final months of the Confederation were characterized by dwindling participation and the anticipation of the new federal government. The ceremonial end on March 3, 1789, and the ushering in of the new government on March 4, 1789, symbolized the formal end of one era and the beginning of another in American history.

• November 21, 1789, North Carolina ratifies the Constitution of 1787
• May 29, 1790 Rhode Island ratifies the Constitution of 1787

The Congressional Evolution of the United States of America 

For students and teachers of U.S. history, this video features Stanley and Christopher Klos presenting America's Four United Republics Curriculum at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Filmed in December 2015, this video is an informal recording by an audience member capturing a presentation attended by approximately 200 students, professors, and guests. To explore the full curriculum, [download it here]. 

Continental Congress of the United Colonies Presidents 

Sept. 5, 1774 to July 1, 1776

Peyton Randolph	September 5, 1774	October 22, 1774
Henry Middleton	October 22, 1774	October 26, 1774
Peyton Randolph	May 20, 1775	May 24, 1775
John Hancock	May 25, 1775	July 1, 1776

Commander-in-Chief United Colonies & States of America

George Washington: June 15, 1775 - December 23, 1783

Continental Congress of the United States Presidents 
July 2, 1776 to February 28, 1781

John Hancock	July 2, 1776	October 29, 1777
Henry Laurens	November 1, 1777	December 9, 1778
John Jay	December 10, 1778	September 28, 1779
Samuel Huntington	September 29, 1779	February 28, 1781

Presidents of the United States in Congress Assembled
March 1, 1781 to March 3, 1789

Samuel Huntington	March 1, 1781	July 6, 1781
Samuel Johnston	July 10, 1781	Declined Office
Thomas McKean	July 10, 1781	November 4, 1781
John Hanson	November 5, 1781	November 3, 1782
Elias Boudinot	November 4, 1782	November 2, 1783
Thomas Mifflin	November 3, 1783	June 3, 1784
Richard Henry Lee	November 30, 1784	November 22, 1785
John Hancock	November 23, 1785	June 5, 1786
Nathaniel Gorham	June 6, 1786	February 1, 1787
Arthur St. Clair	February 2, 1787	January 21, 1788
Cyrus Griffin	January 22, 1788	January 21, 1789

Articles of Confederation Congress
United States in Congress Assembled (USCA) Sessions

USCA	Session Dates	USCA Convene Date	President(s)
First	03-01-1781 to 11-04-1781*	03-02-1781	Samuel Huntington &  Thomas McKean
Second	11-05-1781 to 11-03-1782	11-05-1781	John Hanson
Third	11-04-1782 to 11-02-1783	11-04-1782	Elias Boudinot
Fourth	11-03-1783 to 10-31-1784	11-03-1783	Thomas Mifflin
Fifth	11-01-1784 to 11-06-1785	11-29-1784	Richard Henry Lee
Sixth	11-07-1785 to 11-05-1786	11-23-1785	John Hancock &  Nathaniel Gorham
Seventh	11-06-1786 to 11-04-1787	02-02-1787	Arthur St. Clair
Eighth	11-05-1787 to 11-02-1788	01-21-1788	Cyrus Griffin
Ninth	11-03-1788 to 03-03-1789**	None	None

* The Articles of Confederation was ratified by the mandated 13th State on February 2, 1781, and the dated adopted by the Continental Congress to commence the new  United States in Congress Assembled government was March 1, 1781.  The USCA convened under the Articles of Confederation Constitution on March 2, 1781.  

** On September 14, 1788, the Eighth United States in Congress Assembled resolved that March 4th, 1789, would be commencement date of the Constitution of 1787's federal government thus dissolving the USCA on March 3rd, 1789.

Presidents of the United States of America

1789 - Present

POTUS - CLICK HERE

United Colonies and States First Ladies

1774 - Present

FLOTUS - CLICK HERE

Capitals of the United Colonies and States of America

Philadelphia	Sept. 5, 1774 to Oct. 24, 1774	City Tavern & Carpenter’s Hall
Philadelphia	May 10, 1775 to Dec. 12, 1776	Pennsylvania State House
Baltimore	Dec. 20, 1776 to Feb. 27, 1777	Henry Fite’s House
Philadelphia	March 4, 1777 to Sept. 18, 1777	Pennsylvania State House
Lancaster	September 27, 1777	Lancaster  Court House
York	Sept. 30, 1777 to June 27, 1778	York-town Court House
Philadelphia	July 2, 1778 to June 21, 1783	College Hall - PA State House
Princeton	June 30, 1783 to Nov. 4, 1783	Prospect House - Nassau Hall
Annapolis	Nov. 26, 1783 to Aug. 19, 1784	Maryland, State House
Trenton	Nov. 1, 1784 to Dec. 24, 1784	French Arms Tavern
New York City	Jan. 11, 1785 to Nov. 13, 1788	New York City Hall
New York City	October 6, 1788 to March 3,1789	Walter Livingston House
New York City	March 3,1789 to August 12, 1790	Federal Hall
Philadelphia	Dec. 6,1790 to May 14, 1800	Congress Hall
Washington DC	November 17,1800 to Present	Two US Capitol Buildings

Chart Comparing Presidential Powers - Click Here

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