ANNALS OF CONGRESS Meaning and
Definition
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The "Annals of Congress" refer to a series of documents that serve as a comprehensive record of the activities and proceedings of the United States Congress during its early years. Specifically, it covers the period from 1789 to 1824, encompassing the first fourteen Congresses of the United States. These annals were compiled and published as a historical record of the debates, speeches, laws, and other significant events that took place in the halls of Congress.
As a primary source of information, the Annals of Congress offer invaluable insights into the formation and development of the American government and its legislative branch. They provide a detailed account of legislative discussions, including the arguments put forth by lawmakers, the positions taken on important issues, and the final outcomes of congressional debates. These records shed light on the political and ideological climate of the time, allowing scholars, researchers, and historians to analyze and interpret the decisions made by the early Congress.
The Annals of Congress were compiled from multiple sources, including the original journals of the House of Representatives and the Senate, newspapers reports, private letters, and other contemporary records. The materials were carefully organized and chronologically arranged to present a comprehensive and structured account of congressional activities. The Annals represent a crucial reference point for anyone studying the early political history of the United States and form an important part of the larger body of congressional records that document the evolution of American democracy.
