The primary source documents on this page highlight pivotal moments in the course of American history or government. They are some of the most-viewed and sought-out documents in the holdings of the National Archives. Contents: Lee Resolution (1776) Declaration of Independence (1776) Articles of Confederation (1777) Treaty of Alliance with France (1778) Treaty of Paris (1783) Virginia Plan (1787) Northwest Ordinance (1787) Constitution of the United States (1787) President George Washington's First Inaugural Speech (1789) Federal Judiciary Act (1789) Bill of Rights (1791) Marbury v. Madison (1803)
