ABSTRACT

A Concise Account of the Provinces in North America was originally published only one year after the conclusion of the American Revolution, in 1784, and it is a fascinating account of the 'colonies' at the time of the Revolution from the perspective of British immigrants. It includes seven letters from a Scottish/English immigrant in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which contain helpful, accurate advice for immigrants of this very early period, as well as rare descriptions of the emerging states after the seven years of war. Letters from recent immigrants written in 1783 and 1784 are also included. One Scottish immigrant, apparently a sympathizer with the patriot cause, writes in his letter of 1783 that he has dined with George Washington on two occasions. Other letters capture the economic troubles caused by the war, and the challenges and opportunities that other immigrants would face. Some description of Canada is also included for comparison.