"[Republic of West Florida Declaration of Independence] Florida (West.) - Declaration of Independence by the Representatives Thereof. 26 September, 1810 [in] Cobbett's Weekly Political Register",

This is the December 19, 1810 issue of Cobbett’s Weekly Political Register containing the West Florida Declaration of Independence. The U.S. had claimed West Florida as part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, but it remained under Spanish control. The settlers were mostly Anglos, however, who resented Spanish control and revolted in 1810. The rebels successfully seized the Spanish fort at Baton Rouge on September 23 and declared their independence. The Republic of West Florida (actually called the “State of Florida” in its constitution) was short-lived. Wary of the potential involvement of foreign powers, President Madison moved swiftly to annex and occupy West Florida in December 1810. Subsequently it became part of eastern Louisiana. 32 half-pages (pages 1217-1248) on 16 sheets, with the declaration occurring on pages 1242-1243. Disbound.

For a brief article on the revolt and its significance, click here.

References:

Condition: B+

Mostly clean with occasional spots of foxing and minor dampstains on the inside margins. There is an old stamp in the bottom margin of one unrelated text page.