1813 · Havana
by [Cuba]
Havana, 1813. [1]p. plus integral blank. Folio. Old fold lines. Moderately chipped and worn at edges. Lightly and evenly toned. Contemporary manuscript notations. Good. A rare printed decree from Cuba at the beginning of the 19th century, as Spanish power in the world was waning but Spain's grip on Cuba was still quite firm. This decree, issued by the King on June 14, 1813 and printed on September 20, announces new laws regarding the rights to vote and to be elected to hold government positions for professors and scholars from certain universities, collegiums, and seminars. The decree forbade these rights to the Knights of Justice of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem as well as members of the four military orders of Santiago, Calatrava, Alcantara, and Montesa. It is endorsed in manuscript, with the imprint and header also written in by hand. Early Caribbean imprints are rare (Inventory #: WRCAM46892)