Jefferson's First Inaugural Address
Summary: Jefferson starts off by addressing congress and other groups involved in lawmaking, saying that they must work together to keep the new ship of the nation afloat, and he feels lucky to have their counsel and support. Next, Jefferson discusses the values of the Republic, and the rights all citizens are guaranteed. He explains that, although in representative democracy the majority will have its way, it is crucial that the rights of minority groups also be maintained, otherwise the nation falls into a state of oppression. The President then focuses his speech on unity, calling for American Republicans and Federalists to hold their views dearly, but to always respect and work with each other to maintain the union. Finally, Jefferson promises to always be a champion of the rights of Americans, and to do his best to act in the interest of the country as a whole, as well as to support the political philosophies of those who voted for him.
(Similarly to Jefferson, George W. Bush's inaugural address focused heavily on the rights of the American people in a troubled and turbulent world).
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