1790 BALT, STANDISH BARRY 3PENCE MS55

In 1790, a year marked by pivotal moments in American history, the fledgling United States took critical steps towards solidifying its identity and governance. The nation conducted its inaugural census, a foundational exercise in democracy aimed at enumerating the population and shaping representation in the House of Representatives. Meanwhile, Rhode Island's belated ratification of the United States Constitution on May 29th completed the union of the original thirteen states, affirming a collective commitment to the newly established federal government. The passage of the Assumption Act empowered the federal government to assume state debts accrued during the Revolutionary War, bolstering its financial stability and credibility. Concurrently, President George Washington signed the first Patent Act into law on April 10th, paving the way for the protection of intellectual property and fostering innovation across the young nation. Additionally, the establishment of the District of Columbia, as mandated by the Residence Act on July 16th, laid the groundwork for the creation of the nation's capital, Washington, D.C., signaling the emergence of a distinct seat of government. Amidst these transformative developments, the nation mourned the loss of Benjamin Franklin, a revered Founding Father, whose passing on April 17th marked the end of an era characterized by his multifaceted contributions to American independence and scientific inquiry. These events of 1790 collectively underscored the United States' journey towards nationhood and governance, shaping its trajectory for years to come.