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The French storm the Bastile
On July 14, 1789, a mob stormed the Bastille, the infamous Paris prison, releasing the prisoners and killing the prison governor. Not long afterward, while walking on a Paris street, Morris got a close look at revolutionary violence. Morris was appointed minister to France in 1792. Despite his horror at the violence around him, Morris remained at his post throughout the bloodiest days of the Revolution. Meanwhile, at home, Americans were divided in their views concerning the events underway. -
Bill of Rights
In Philadelphia's Congress Hall, the Bill of Rights, which constitutes the first ten amendments to the Constitution, takes effect. Two of the original twelve amendments do not pass. -
Edmond Genet arrived America
Edmond Genet, a young French diplomat, to America to each for American support regarding the French Revolution. Genet began to recruit Americans for the war efforts against Great Britain. -
Declaration of Neutrality
Washington issued a statement that the United States would support neither the rebellious, nor the noble side of the French Revolution. -
Treaty with Spain
General Wayne signs peace treaty with the Indians at Fort Greenville, Ohio, ending the hostilities in what was then know as the Northwest Territories. -
Treaty of San Lorenzo
Spain agreed to meet with US minister , Thomas Pinckney. Later on, United States and Spain agreed to sign the Treaty of San Lorenzo, in which ceded virtually every land concession that the Americans desired, including the east of the Mississippi River and the northern boundary of Florida. -
Abolishment of Slavery
A law is passed to abolish slavery in the state of New York, effective twenty-eight years later, in 1827.
