LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural

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LAD #9: Jefferson's First Inaugural

 

Thomas Jefferson touches on multiple points in his first inaugural address. To begin, Jefferson thanks the citizens who supported him and acknowledges the responsibility the office of the president. He also reaches out to the other politicians in government, asking them for guidance throughout his term in office. He then goes on the acknowledge the complications of the election that put him in office, emphasizing the importance of sustained unity. Though he recognizes that their are different opinions among government officials, and that the the majority will make most decisions as it sees fit, he also states that the government must not forget the rights of the minority. He states that even though people have different opinions, their patriotic values unite them as one. Jefferson talks about the American value of liberty, and makes clear that the responsibility of government is to maintain that virtue for the people, leaving most of the power to them. He then lists his beliefs on the important issues he will base his presidency on, mentioning that it is important to uphold what the revolutionaries fought for. He finishes by asking for the continued support of the people, requesting that they are understanding of his mistakes and that they have faith in him throughout his term.

 

 

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This speech reminded me of Federalist #10, which discusses the importance of unity and the threat of factions in the form of political parties. Though Jefferson is a member of a party himself, he also stresses the importance of unity and government for all, not just the majority.