Image
Description
This petition from 1793 was from Americans living west of the Allegheny Mountains, which is a mountain range in West Virginia. These petitioners were concerned about navigation rights on the Mississippi River. The citizens felt that they should have free navigation of the Mississippi to help them successfully settle the country west of the Allegheny Mountains.
Full Transcript of Petition about Navigation Rights of Mississippi River
Transcribed Excerpts from Petition about Navigation Rights of Mississippi River
Source-Dependent Questions
- What reasons do the citizens west of the Allegheny Mountains give for wanting free navigation of the Mississippi River? How could you categorize those reasons?
- What do the petitioners imply they will do if the federal government fails to help them gain access to the Mississippi? Cite evidence from the text in your answer.
- Analyze the barriers to free navigation of the Mississippi, according to the petitioners. Recommend possible solutions to the problem.
Citation Information
"To the President and Congress of the United States of America. The remonstrance of the citizens west of the Allegheny mountains respectfully sheweth [concerning the navigation of the Mississippi]," 1793. Courtesy of Library of Congress