James Madison: Veto Message on the Internal Improvements Bill
March 3, 1817 (about 207 years ago)Finding no such power in the Constitution, President James Madison vetos a bill passed by Congress to establish a system of roads and canals throughout the nation. Madison argues that this power is one reserved by the States themselves.
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Millard Fillmore: First Annual Message
December 2, 1850 (over 173 years ago)After the unfortunate passing of President Zachary Taylor, his Vice-President, Millard Fillmore took office. Here in a pseudo-Inaugural Address, Fillmore addresses Congress 'to make known my sentiments in a general manner in regard to the policy which ought to be pursued by the Government both i...
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James Monroe: Third Annual Message
December 7, 1819 (over 204 years ago)President Monroe speaks at length to a treaty between the United States and Spain to among other things cede the Florida territory to the United States. Monroe touches on the delay to the ratification of the treaty by His Majesty of Spain before discussing other matters of the union including a ...
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James Madison: Proclamation - Occupation of West Florida
October 27, 1810 (over 213 years ago)President James Madison outlines in a proclamation the rationale behind his order for the Governor of the Orleans Territory to take over control of Western Florida, still controlled at that time by Spain.
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George Washington: Proclamation of Militia Service
September 25, 1794 (over 229 years ago)President George Washington calls on militias of multiple states to quell an uprising in Western Pennsylvania (The Whiskey Rebellion) to insure that a small proportion of the United States shall not dictate to the whole Union and order will be restored.
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Andrew Jackson: Third Annual Message to Congress
December 6, 1831 (over 192 years ago)After addressing the state of foreign affairs, President Jackson focuses on efforts to remove Indians from their lands - events that came to be referred to as the "Trail of Tears".
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George Washington: Farewell Address
September 19, 1796 (over 227 years ago)In an incredible speech, President George Washington announces that he will not seek a third term - noting that he had desired to retire after just one term, but had stayed on because the country was not yet stable enough for his conscience to allow it. He expounds upon the value that all parts ...
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Thomas Jefferson: Instructions to Captain Lewis
June 20, 1803 (almost 221 years ago)President Thomas Jefferson outlines the objectives for the Lewis and Clark expedition, in particular to explore the waterways that would allow for commerce to reach the Pacific Ocean. In intricate detail, Jefferson outlines how Lewis and Clark should take notes and guard them from destruction, e...
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Thomas Jefferson: Seventh Annual Message
October 27, 1807 (over 216 years ago)In a speech referencing many historical events, President Thomas Jefferson speaks to Congress of the British's attack on the frigate Chesapeake, and the accompanying need to reinforce the nations militia and navy. He also speaks on Indian affairs and the thwarted treasonous acts of Aaron Burr.
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John Adams: Proclamation of Pardons to Those Engaged in Fries Rebellion
May 21, 1800 (almost 224 years ago)After peace had been restored following the third tax-related rebellion in the 18th century, John Adams extends a pardon to those 'ignorant, misguided and misinformed' participants.
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