Author

Letters from Henry Laurens

B. 1724 · D. 1792

Henry Laurens was an American Founding Father, merchant, slave trader, and rice planter from South Carolina who became a political leader during the Revolutionary War. A delegate to the Second Continental Congress, Laurens succeeded John Hancock as its president. He was a signatory to the Articles of Confederation and, as president, presided over its passage.

Source: Wikipedia
28 letters
Also see 36 letters received by Henry Laurens →
Letter

Henry Laurens to Benjamin Franklin, March 17, 1783

From Henry Laurens
To Benjamin Franklin
March 17, 1783

Henry Laurens reports to Benjamin Franklin from London in 1783 that British government negotiations remain unstable, with key political figures resisting coalition formation and delaying progress on a definitive peace treaty. He expresses frustration over the lack of advancement toward treaty ratification and insists that no commercial relations should begin until the treaty is finalized and British troops fully withdraw from American territory.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Henry Laurens to Other American Peace Commissioners, June 10, 1783

From Henry Laurens
To Other American Peace Commissioners
June 10, 1783

Henry Laurens informs fellow American peace commissioners of a newly arrived proclamation that appears to relate to a commercial treaty. He anticipates seeing a mutual acquaintance, D. H., in London soon and plans to lodge there that night. Laurens expresses his continued support and service to the commissioners.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Henry Laurens to Other American Peace Commissioners, June 17, 1783

From Henry Laurens
To Other American Peace Commissioners
June 17, 1783

Henry Laurens reports to the American Peace Commissioners in 1783 about his meeting with British Secretary Fox, who reveals Britain's firm stance on the Navigation Act and evolving views on reciprocity favoring British advantages. Laurens contemplates a brief visit to Bath, suggesting delays or uncertainties in finalizing the commercial agreement in Paris.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Henry Laurens to Other American Peace Commissioners, August 9, 1783

From Henry Laurens
To Other American Peace Commissioners
August 9, 1783

Henry Laurens informs fellow American peace commissioners of his arrival in London and his immediate efforts to communicate with British officials, including a detailed conversation with Charles James Fox. He prioritizes diplomatic negotiations over the ratification of the provisional articles, clarifying his specific mission. Laurens also updates them on the dispatch of important documents to Congress via Captain Barney.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Henry Laurens to Benjamin Franklin, September 21, 1783

From Henry Laurens
To Benjamin Franklin
September 21, 1783

Henry Laurens responds to Benjamin Franklin's concern about rumors that the French court opposed American claims to fisheries and territory in the Treaty of Paris. Laurens acknowledges the existence of such reports but attributes them to efforts to sow discord among American leaders and allies. He defends Franklin's consistent conduct and urges caution in accepting unverified accusations.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience