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Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
[Second Treatise on Government] An Essay Concerning the True Original Extent and End of Civil Government
Courtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection

[Second Treatise on Government] An Essay Concerning the True Original Extent and End of Civil Government

Artifact IDTL 2026.1.32
Object Type Temporary Loan
Date 1773
Author (English, 1632 - 1704)
Printer (American, active 1755 - 1775)
Place MadeBoston, Massachusetts, United States of America
Medium Octavo book
DimensionsOverall W 7 1/2 in x D 8 1/4 in (19.1 cm x 21 cm)
Physical Description[Second Treatise on Government] An Essay Concerning the True Original Extent and End of Civil Government.
(Boston: Edes and Gill, 1773).

Historical NoteThis 1773 Boston edition of John Locke’s foundational text, re-printed by Edes and Gill, directly fueled the ideological framework of the American Revolution. Locke’s arguments regarding the social contract, natural rights, and the right to overthrow a tyrannical government provided the primary philosophical justification for colonial resistance against British rule. American patriots integrated his core principles into revolutionary pamphlets and the Declaration of Independence. This specific copy contains a contemporary ownership inscription by Isaac Backus, a prominent New England proponent of religious liberty, dated February 26, 1773.
Additional Details
Credit LineCourtesy of the David M. Rubenstein Americana Collection
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPolitical Memorabilia (National Archives Identifier 1677287)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - FullyUse Restriction NoteThe use of this image and document information is fully restricted. Reproduction in any manner is not allowed.
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