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"A Defence of Constitutional Government" 1st Edition by John Adams

"A Defence of Constitutional Government" 1st Edition by John Adams

Regular price $14,171.00 CAD
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A Defense of the Constitutions of Government of the United States of America by John
Adams, the second president of the USA and Founding Father. This book was published in London by C. Dilly in 1787, this example is a one volume, first edition, from the second printing. This is an octavo book, in restored condition with original, re-backed leather binding and a restored spine label.

Written in England while John Adams was the American ambassador, this book is a stirring defense of American constitutional government to rebut European critics. It was published while the US Constitution was being drafted and anticipates many of the arguments in the Federalist Papers. 

Adams’ Defence made a provocative argument that resonated with the popular call to reform the weak Articles of Confederation. Adams ended volume 1 with the declaration that “all nations, under all governments, must have parties; the great secret is to control them: there are but two ways, either by a monarchy and standing army, or by a balance in the constitution. Where the people have a voice, and there is no balance, there will be everlasting fluctuations, revolutions, and horrors, until a standing army, with a general at its head, commands the peace, or the necessity of an equilibrium is made appear to all, and is adopted by all.”

Dimensions: Approx. 8.25" x 5.275" x 1.675

Purchased on "Pawn Stars do America" Season 2 Episode 6 "Rhode Island Riches"

Condition Report: This item shows signs of natural aging w/ wear and tear such as discoloration, crunched corners, stiff pages, & cracked leather. 

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