[Franklin, Benjamin, and Richard Jackson] | Franklin's arguments against the Pennsylvania Proprietors

[Franklin, Benjamin, and Richard Jackson]

An Historical Review of the Constitution and Government of Pennsylvania, from its Origin; So Far as Regards the Several Points of Controversy, which have, from time to time, arisen between the Several Governors of that Province and their Several Assemblies. Founded on Authentic Documents. London: R. Griffiths, 1759.

8vo. Pencil marginalia (trimmed and folded at an early date so as to be preserved and not trimmed off). Contemporary calf; rebacked to style. 

First edition — Franklin's arguments against the Pennsylvania Proprietors

"This book was for many years attributed to Benjamin Franklin, but it was more likely written by his co-agent in London, Richard Jackson, with Franklin's advice. The work was essentially an argument made, in reviewing the history of the province, for the rights of the Assembly over the Proprietors...The long duel between the Penn faction and the forces allied with the legislature colored Pennsylvania politics throughout the 18th century, finally coming to a head during the American Revolution" (Reese). 

PROVENANCE

Walter Charles James, 1st Baron Northbourne (armorial bookplate)

REFERENCE

Ford 253; Howes P204; Sabin 25512; Reese, Struggle for North America 46