Navigation Acts

Explore the documents below to learn how this provision developed in each draft.

Aug 3, 1787

Manuscript of the Committee of Detail Report

James Wilson wrote this document while serving on the Committee of Detail. Consisting of five members, the committee used the previously adopted resolutions and proposals to begin its work—making many edits and additions to create this preliminary draft of the Constitution.

Aug 5, 1787

Proof Copy of the Committee of Detail Report

The Committee of Detail gave its report to a pair of Philadelphia printers. This is the only known proof copy, which is nearly identical to James Wilson’s manuscript, and was submitted for review. Committee-member Edmund Randolph made 11 corrections before copies were printed for all of the delegates.