Historic Americana
1758-1801 (41) Volumes of “The Annual Register, OR A View of the History, Politics, and Literature for the Year...”
(41) Volume Set of “The Annual Register, or a View of the History, Politics, and Literature for the Year...,” Printed in London, England for J. Dodsley, a Fine Set.
This original matched Set of 41 Volumes offers near complete coverage of the years from 1758 to 1801 in a set of Matching Bound Volumes, numbered from 1 to 43. There are only two missing yearly volumes: 1769 & 1786. Each volume measures 5” x 8” and ranges from 1.25” to nearly 2” thick. All of the volume covers are in excellent condition, and internally, they are nice, clean, and easy-to-read. Some have bookplates and prior owner notations on the frontis blanks and bookplates by previous owners. Mixed Editions: First through Eighth.

A myriad subjects are covered in these volumes: antiquities, history of Europe, medical essays, letters, poetry, etc.

Overall, an unfiltered look into the British mind before, during, and after both the French and Indian, plus the American Revolutionary War. Begun in 1758, The Annual Register is an annual survey of the past year (traditionally focusing on history, politics, State Papers [including addresses, speeches, and letters], science, and literature) from the British perspective. These volumes contain extensive and detailed information on the American Colonies. The American Revolution and the formation and early years of the United States are covered in great depth.

Highlights include very early printings of both the Declaration of Independence in book form, the 1776 volume here is a fifth edition(1803?) and the Constitution, The 1787 volume is a second edition (1789). The various volumes also contain the Articles of Confederation, the Treaty of Paris, Washington's Farewell Address, and countless other significant documents and noted public addresses. There is also reporting on all major incidents and Battles including, The Boston Massacre and subsequent trial(1770), the Boston Tea Party(1774), Bunker Hill (1775), Lexington & Concord (1775), Ticonderoga (1775), Saratoga (1777), Washington crossing the Delaware (1777), etc. While the post-Revolutionary War volumes provide an in-depth look at the French Revolution, the rise of Napoleon, the British war against France, as well as the diplomatic problems faced by the young United States in dealing with the increasingly hostile French. A scarce and rarely encountered historic original Set.