THE NOW FAMOUS
IMONTGOMERIE CHARTER

new York's first concession in popular government

Those of us who read history sometimes lose sight of
the fact that revolutions do not occur usually on the spur
of the moment. Probably no set of people ever endured
more stupid and irritating treatment for so long a period,
without reprisal, than did the American Colonists.

Following the Dongan Charter, which gave the people
a slight measure of self-government, but very slight, the
people again applied for additional relief; and in a peti¬
tion addressed to His Excellency, John Montgomerie,
Esq., Governor of the Province, they set forth an appeal
for such governmental changes as they could no longer
do without.

The iVlontgomerie Charter marked a distinct advance
in popular participation by the people in local government.
It is interesting to trace the growth of independence which
is now unmistakably in evidence. As the city grows older
we will observe this spirit increasing with its strength.
Several times, notably during the period just preceding
the Repeal of the Stamp Act, the royal authorities re¬
ceived ample warning of the true temper of the people,
if a more lenient policy were not adopted.

The quaint phraseology of the Montgomerie Charter,
the importance of the concessions secured thereby, are
all of the most interesting character, and our readers will
no doubt enjoy reading this document, which marked a
very distinct milestone in the path of American Freedom.

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