Now students of political science and legislative history can take a firsthand look at the early course of American history through official records from the legislative and executive branches of government from the First through the Twenty-fifth Congress.

Official floor debates, memos, and committee proceedings reflect not only the growth of government, but also the personalities of our early legislative leaders and presidents. Students can trace issues both national and international in scope as recorded in history from the unique perspective of the U.S. lawmakers.

The collection is divided and organized into 10 series:

• Foreign Relations, 6 vols., 1789-1828
• Indian Affairs, 2 vols., 1789-1827
• Finance, 5 vols., 1789-1828
• Commerce and Navigation, 2 vols., 1789-1823
• Military Affairs, 7 vols., 1789-1838
• Naval Affairs, 4 vols., 1794-1836
• Post Office Department, 1 vol., 1790-1833
• Public Lands, 8 vols. ,1789-1837
• Claims, 1 vol., 1790-1823
• Miscellaneous, 2 vols., 1789-1823

American State Papers reproduces on microfilm unique documents selected and edited under Congressional auspices in the 19th century. With this collection, researchers and students can trace such topics as the development of legislation in relation to historical events and the impact of party politics on the formation of public policy.