Congress of the United States; at the Third Session signed in type by George Washington and John Adams - 1790-91 dated Printed Autograph

This document is a printed copy of an early United States federal law from the Third Congress, dated 1791. It is titled “An Act declaring the Consent of Congress to a certain Act of the State of Maryland,” and it shows that Congress formally approved a law passed by Maryland. The Maryland law allowed the wardens of the Port of Baltimore to levy and collect a duty, meaning a fee or tax connected to port operations and shipping activity. Congress granted its consent for this Maryland act to remain in effect until January 10th and then continue through the end of the next session of Congress. The document is significant because it reflects early cooperation between state and federal government authority and includes notable names from the founding era, including Frederick Augustus Muhlenberg as Speaker of the House, John Adams as Vice President and President of the Senate, and George Washington, who approved it as President on February 9, 1791.

George Washington (1732–1799), a foundational American leader, served as the commander of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and later as the first President of the United States. Born in Virginia, he initially worked as a surveyor and planter before gaining military experience during the French and Indian War. Washington’s resilience and leadership were instrumental in uniting his army and securing victory against Great Britain.

As president from 1789 to 1797, Washington established enduring precedents, such as the cabinet system and a commitment to neutrality in foreign affairs. After retiring from public life to his Mount Vernon estate, he solidified his legacy as a leader who voluntarily relinquished power, choosing a voluntary retirement over a potential third term. Washington passed away in 1799 and is remembered as the “Father of His Country.”

John Adams (1735–1826), a pivotal Founding Father and intellectual leader, played a crucial role in American independence. Born in Massachusetts and educated at Harvard, he rose to prominence as a lawyer before serving in the Continental Congress. There, he was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Later, he served as a diplomat in Europe, where he helped negotiate the 1783 Treaty of Paris. Before becoming president, he was George Washington’s vice president.

As president (1797–1801), Adams faced significant partisan conflict and managed an undeclared naval war with France, known as the XYZ Affair, while avoiding full-scale war. His presidency was also marred by the controversial Alien and Sedition Acts. Consequently, he lost his re-election bid to Thomas Jefferson in 1800. After retiring from public life, Adams maintained a renowned correspondence with his wife, Abigail. He passed away on July 4, 1826, the same day as Jefferson and on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

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