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Interpreting the Evidence

George Clinton to John Jay, Protection for Towns in the Northeast of the State, May 18, 1779

  • Documents in this Activity:
  • Historical Eras:

    Revolution and New Nation (1754 - 1820s)

  • Thinking Skill:

    Historical Analysis & Interpretation

  • Grade Level:

    Middle School
    High School
    College University

  • Topics:

    American Revolution
    Communication

  • Primary Source Types:

    Written Document

  • Regions:

    New York State
    United States

  • Creator:

    NYS Archives Partnership Trust Education Team

  1. Load George Clinton to John Jay, Protection for Towns in the Northeast of the State, May 18, 1779 in Main Image Viewer
  2. Load George Clinton to John Jay, Protection for Towns in the Northeast of the State, May 18, 1779 in Main Image Viewer

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Document Description
Letter from George Clinton to John Jay, President of Congress regarding protection to towns in the northeast of the State, May 18, 1779.
Historical Context
The newly gained independence and self determination of the United States brought to the forefront longstanding domestic issues that were destined to divide the emerging nation. One of the situations involved the land dispute between New York and New Hampshire over the territory that would eventually be the first state created under the new constitution, Vermont
Vermont maintained its mostly independent character throughout the French and Indian War and the Revolution. Powerful political factions such as those backing Ethan Allen and even early settlers in the region viewed themselves as neither part of New York nor New Hampshire. Ultimately Vermonters would become a state in 1791.
Essential Question
What effects was the Revolution having on domestic policies?
Historical Challenges
Research how interstate disputes are handled by the federal government and states today and compare to the early days of the central administration.
Interdisciplinary Connections
ELA/Art
Choose a side in the debate to support and create a broadside banner showing why.