Published in the same year as the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, this early depiction of Philadelphia is a historically significant piece of early American cartographic history. Europeans began settling the region in the early seventeenth century, with Dutch colonies being established on the banks of the Delaware River. These initial settlements were followed by immigrants from Sweden, Finland, and England who would develop a peaceful relationship with surrounding indigenous peoples, resulting in Philadelphia's rapid growth and prosperity through the following centuries. By the time of this publication, it was the most influential American city. Both its political, cultural, and economic significance as well as its geographic location made it the center for American Revolutionary forces both during and leading up to the Revolutionary War. The city was the site of several battles during the conflict, and British General Howe occupied the city in 1777. By the 1750s, Philadelphia had surpassed Boston to become the largest city with a thriving port that exported goods back to England. Philadelphia was the United States capital from 1790 to 1800 as the District of Columbia was under construction. Benjamin Easburn was a noted surveyor of the time, and this map's minimal aesthetic and classic style distinguishes it from more ornate works of the time. The late eighteenth century was perhaps the most formative period for what would become the United States as it gained independence from Colonial British rule and embarked on a bold path of democratic governance and increased prosperity. Our museum quality giclee print comes printed with archival ink on premium heavyweight matte paper. Shipped in a sturdy cardboard tube your print will arrive ready to be framed. This eye-catching vintage map reproduction print makes the perfect gift for anyone that loves history and imagery.