David K Stone (Oregon, 1922 - 2001) "Benjamin Franklin and Map of America 1783" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 20c Treaty of Paris stamp issued September 2, 1983. The American Revolution raged on for years as America fought desperately for her freedom and independence. However, the course of the war and the history of America was abruptly changed in 1783, when the famous Treaty of Paris was signed. This important treaty, which officially ended the American Revolution, was signed on September 3, 1783, by such key figures in American history as John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and John Jay. It was hailed as "one of the most important political events that ever happened on this globe" by John Adams. In addition, Benjamin Franklin called it "the greatest triumph in the history of American diplomacy." Aside from ending the Revolutionary War, the Treaty of Paris also set up a number of conditions regarding America's rights and boundaries. For example, the treaty established the boundaries of the United States at the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River and the northern border of Florida ... which the British ceded to Spain. It also recognized the right of Americans to fish off the Grand Banks of Newfoundland and to navigate the Mississippi River freely. This historic treaty -- between Great Britain on one side and the United States, France, Spain, and Holland on the other -- was of great magnitude to America. Image Size: 21 x 18.25 in. Overall Size: 27.25 x 23.75 in. Unframed. (B08117)