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Madison's state-of-the-union address to the nation...
Madison's state-of-the-union address to the nation...
Item # 702780
December 05, 1809
NEW HAMPSHIRE PATRIOT, Concord, Dec. 5, 1809
* President James Madison
* State of the Union Address
Taking nearly 2 columns on page 2 is the: "President's Message" being his annual state-of-the-union address in which he recounts the events of the year, signed in type: James Madison.
Four pages, wide, never-trimmed margins, nice condition.
background: James Madison’s first State of the Union Address, delivered on November 29, 1809, focused heavily on foreign relations, economic conditions, and national defense in the wake of ongoing tensions with Britain and France during the Napoleonic Wars. Madison highlighted the difficulties caused by British maritime policies, including the impressment of American sailors and restrictions on neutral trade, while also criticizing French decrees that violated U.S. neutrality. He acknowledged the economic distress caused by trade restrictions like the Embargo Act and its replacements, but stressed the need to balance commerce with national honor and security. Madison urged Congress to strengthen the nation’s defenses, particularly the navy and coastal fortifications, and to consider measures to encourage domestic manufacturing as a safeguard against foreign dependence. He also discussed the importance of maintaining unity among the states and expressed cautious optimism that diplomacy might resolve conflicts without war. Overall, the address set the tone for Madison’s presidency, foreshadowing the mounting pressures that would eventually lead to the War of 1812.
Category: Pre-Civil War
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