Philipsburg Proclamation

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The Philipsburg Proclamation was issued toward the end of the American Revolution following Dunmore's Proclamation.

Background[edit]

This second proclamation sought again to persuade slaves to join the Loyalist cause and fight against colonial subjects by enlisting in the Royal Army. Those who joined the Royals became known as a Black Loyalist.

Text[edit]

General Clinton issued the following proclamation:^[1]

Whereas the enemy have adopted a practice of enrolling NEGROES among their Troops, I do hereby give notice That all NEGROES taken in arms, or upon any military Duty, shall be purchased for the public service at a stated Price; the money to be paid to the Captors.

But I do most strictly forbid any Person to sell or claim Right over any NEGROE, the property of a Rebel, who may take Refuge with any part of this Army: And I do promise to every NEGROE who shall desert the Rebel Standard, full security to follow within these Lines, any Occupation which he shall think proper.

Given under my Hand, at Head Quarters, PHILIPSBURGH the 30th day of June, 1779.

H CLINTON

References[edit]