Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty, the Principles of Government, and the Justice and Policy of the War with America

PRICE, Richard (1723-1791)

Published by Printed for T. Cadell, London, 1776

About this Item

(8 5/8 x 5 1/2 inches). [A]4, B-I8, K2. pp. [viii], 132. Modern quarter cloth, marbled paper boards, morocco lettering piece on front board with title lettered gilt, patterned endpapers One of the most important British defenses of American independence, Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty is an essential work in Revolutionary-era political thought. A passionate defense of individual liberty and representative government, the present work directly critiques British policy toward the American colonies, arguing against taxation without representation and denouncing the war as unjust and impractical. Written by one of Britain's leading dissenting intellectuals, the pamphlet became an instant sensation, going through multiple editions within months of its release. In Observations, Price articulates a vision of civil liberty rooted in Enlightenment ideals, emphasizing the necessity of free and just government grounded in the consent of the governed. He warns against tyranny, arguing that the British government's actions in America violate fundamental principles of freedom. The work had an immediate and profound impact, not only in Britain but also in the American colonies, where it was widely read and admired. Price's arguments resonated with key figures of the Revolution, including John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, and helped shape transatlantic debates on the nature of liberty and self-government. Price's advocacy for American independence and broader political reform in Britain made him both a celebrated and controversial figure, drawing responses from figures such as Edmund Burke and Samuel Johnson. Richard Price was a Welsh philosopher, political theorist, and Unitarian minister, known for his contributions to moral philosophy, political economy, and actuarial science. Born in Tynton, Glamorgan, he became a prominent advocate for political reform and religious dissent in Britain. A staunch supporter of the American Revolution, he also later supported the early stages of the French Revolution, believing in the universal application of liberty and democratic governance. Price's political writings, including the present work, were widely influential on both sides of the Atlantic. In recognition of his support for American independence, the Continental Congress invited him to advise on financial matters for the new republic. His work on probability and statistics also played a foundational role in the development of actuarial science, influencing the creation of modern life insurance and financial planning. Though celebrated for his progressive views, Price's radicalism made him a target of conservative critics. His ideas on government and liberty continued to influence political thought well into the 19th century, shaping liberal and reformist movements in both Britain and America. Adams, American Controversy 76-118h; American Independence 224h. Sabin 65452. See also: Howes P586; Kress 7243; Goldsmiths 11512; Revolutionary Hundred 38 (refers).

Seller Inventory # 42106

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty, the Principles of Government, and the Justice and Policy of the War with America
• Publisher: Printed for T. Cadell, London
• Publication Date: 1776
• Binding: 8vo
• Seller catalogs:
  • Americana & Canadiana