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Jefferson's last state-of-the-union address...
Jefferson's last state-of-the-union address...
Item # 700506
November 16, 1808
COLUMBIAN CENTINEL, Boston, Nov. 16, 1808
* President Thomas Jefferson (1808)
* Final State of the Union Address
On the front page under: "Congressional Journal" are reports from the second session of the Tenth Congress, that describe the business of the House of Representatives, including the protocol in which the Congress received the Annual Message of the President.
Hereafter is the "MESSAGE" from the President to the Congress, taking 2 1/2 columns on the front page and 1/2 column on page 2, signed in type: TH: Jefferson. In the address Jefferson reflects upon his accomplishments in 1808 with some discussion of Indian affairs, and other matters of national interest.
Four pages, never bound nor trimmed, a heavy crease across the entire with mild rubbing, a printing crease near the top, minor wear at the margins. Page 2 has mends across the horizontal fold.
AI notes: Thomas Jefferson’s last annual message to Congress, delivered in writing on November 8, 1808, reflected his final reflections as president, emphasizing prudence, peace, and limited government. He focused on maintaining American neutrality amid the Napoleonic Wars, defending the Embargo Act of 1807 as a necessary, though economically burdensome, measure to protect U.S. commerce without resorting to war. Jefferson highlighted the importance of military preparedness through coastal defenses rather than a large standing army, and he noted the continued reduction of the national debt as a cornerstone of fiscal responsibility. He praised the Louisiana Purchase for its contributions to national growth and encouraged orderly governance of the territories while supporting internal improvements like lighthouses and navigable roads under a restrained federal role. Overall, the message combined cautious optimism with pragmatic advice, aiming to preserve peace, strengthen commerce, and ensure the nation’s security while adhering to Jeffersonian principles of limited government and fiscal restraint.
Category: Pre-Civil War
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