Chris Calle: Massachusetts Statehood

Artist: Chris Calle
1961 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1988
Image Size: 19.5 by 14.25 inches
Overall Size: 29.125 by 22 inches
Medium: Mixed Media on Cold Press Illustration Board

In late January 1788, the Boston air carried a decided chill, not entirely due to the seasonal weather. Talk along the waterfront, in the pubs, and on the street seemed centered on events at the Brattle Street Church, where state convention delegates were hashing out the proposed Constitution. At the outset, Thomas Jefferson -- from his post as American minister to France -- had sent his views, setting the stage for debate. Approving of the separation of powers concept, taxing powers and other issues, Jefferson went on to explain, "I will add now what I do not like ... First the omission of a bill of rights," which freemen need to protect them from, "every government on earth ... and what no just government should refuse, or rest on inference." Jefferson's point was well taken in Massachusetts, where citizens packed the convention house to hear exactly what their rights would be under the proposed Constitution. A special press gallery was set up for reporters to carry the debate into the newspapers for those who could not be there. Massachusetts, as the fourth most populous state and a center of commercial activity, had special needs to be addressed. And, thus, it was here that the Constitution was bitterly debated. Initially refusing to preside, John Hancock eventually took a leading role, presenting recommendatory amendments which were to decide the vote. On February 6, 1788, Massachusetts delegates voted to ratify the U.S. Constitution with suggested amendments.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood® Maximum Card for the U.S. 22¢ Massachusetts Statehood stamp issued February 6, 1988.

Artwork Copyright © 1988 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.

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