Author

Letters from Robert R Livingston

B. 1746 · D. 1813

Robert Robert Livingston was an American lawyer, politician, and diplomat from New York, as well as a Founding Father of the United States. He was known as "The Chancellor" after the high New York state legal office he held for 25 years. He was a member of the Committee of Five that drafted the Declaration of Independence, along with Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, and Roger Sherman, but was recalled by the state of New York before he could sign the document. Livingston administered the oath of office to George Washington when he assumed the presidency April 30, 1789. Livingston was also elected as a member of the American Philosophical Society in 1801.

Source: Wikipedia
42 letters
Also see 73 letters received by Robert R Livingston →
Letter

Robert R Livingston to American Peace Commissioners, April 21, 1783

From Robert R Livingston
To American Peace Commissioners
April 21, 1783

Robert R. Livingston informs the American Peace Commissioners about his correspondence with British officials regarding the provisional Articles of peace, noting their cold and doubtful responses. He reports that Congress debates whether to immediately ratify the provisional Articles and whether to release prisoners, seeking clarification on the Articles' status as either preliminary or definitive. Livingston requests guidance from the Commissioners to resolve these uncertainties.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Robert R Livingston to American Peace Commissioners, May 31, 1783

From Robert R Livingston
To American Peace Commissioners
May 31, 1783

Robert R. Livingston informs the American Peace Commissioners of Congress's recent resolutions regarding the payment of British debts and expresses concern over their prolonged silence amid ongoing negotiations, including proposals from Holland. He cautions against making new commitments that might entangle the United States in European conflicts and urges careful consideration of the potential benefits before proceeding.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Robert R Livingston to Benjamin Franklin, May 31, 1783

From Robert R Livingston
To Benjamin Franklin
May 31, 1783

Robert R. Livingston updates Benjamin Franklin on the resolution of a legal matter involving the ship Nostra Signora da Soledade and the Portuguese crown, while noting that Franklin's resignation has not yet been accepted. He urges Franklin to address unresolved issues concerning the Alliance and the Bon Homme Richard ships, as well as the restitution of vessels detained by Denmark. Livingston also reports slow progress in evacuating New York and requests additional financial support for the army.

American RevolutionDiplomacyFounding EraScience
Letter

Robert R Livingston to Alexander Hamilton, August 30, 1783

From Robert R Livingston
To Alexander Hamilton
August 30, 1783

Robert R. Livingston expresses disappointment that Alexander Hamilton did not visit Clermont and discusses political and financial concerns, including a failed opportunity for an allowance and commission. He laments the prevailing spirit of persecution in New York, attributing it to personal vendettas and selfish interests rather than patriotic motives. Livingston fears these divisions will harm the state's wealth, commerce, and future peace.

American RevolutionFederalismFinanceFounding Era
Letter

Robert R Livingston to Alexander Hamilton, March 3, 1787

From Robert R Livingston
To Alexander Hamilton
March 3, 1787

Robert R. Livingston advises Alexander Hamilton against publishing a letter from Baron von Steuben, warning it would provoke criticism and harm the Baron's chances for future compensation from Congress. He also acknowledges Hamilton's efforts in taxation reforms and expresses mixed feelings about recent legislative developments.

American RevolutionFederalismFinanceFounding Era