Description:

James Monroe
Washington, DC, August 28, 1812
James Monroe Signed War of 1812 Privateer's Additional Instructions
DS

James Monroe (1758-1831). Printed document signed, "Jas. Monroe," as secretary of state, 1p, bifolium, 7.75" x 10.25", Washington City, August 28, 1812. Inner pages and verso blank. Pencil notations and remnants of adhesive at verso. Moderate browning with blocks of toning from apparent prior mounting. Scattered foxing. Flattened folds, creases, and wrinkles. Some edge chipping and small closed tears, not affecting text. In good to very good condition.

In full:

"Additional Instruction to the public and private armed vessels of the United States.

The public and private armed vessels of the United States are not to interrupt any vessels belonging to citizens of the United States coming from British ports to the United States laden with British merchandize, in consequence of the alledged repeal of the British Orders in Council, but are on the contrary to give aid and assistance to the same; in order that such vessels and their cargoes may be dealt with on their arrival as may be decided by the competent authorities.

By command of the President of the United States of America."

On June 18, 1812, President James Madison signed a declaration of war, marking the beginning of the War of 1812. During the war, American privateers played a significant role in disrupting British maritime commerce and bolstering the American economy. Privateers often used fast-sailing schooners and sloops, well-suited for raiding and capturing merchant vessels. They captured a substantial number of British merchant vessels, far exceeding the U.S. Navy's captures, and brought home valuable prizes. Privateers were privately owned and operated, commissioned by the U.S. government to attack enemy ships during wartime.

Ship captains were issued initial instructions, including seventeen articles, specific rules, and practices to be undertaken by privateers when seizing enemy commerce during the War of 1812. These instructions included: paying the strictest regard to the rights of neutral powers; avoiding even the appearance of using force or seduction; and behaving with humanity, treating passengers and prisoners of war according to international law.

Apparently, there was some uncertainty about how to deal with American ships coming from British ports. To address this, supplemental instructions were issued for the guidance of captains on August 28, 1812, like the example here offered.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 7.75" x 10.25"
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