LAD #8- The Monroe Doctrine


During President Monroe's seventh annual message to Congress, the Monroe Doctrine was expressed on December 2, 1823. In the doctrine, Monroe makes it clear that the United States is of free and independent condition and therefore should not be considered a subject for future colonization by European powers. The doctrine continues to say that the U.S. is for the most part a spectator when it comes to foreign affairs, especially the European wars, and that it does not comport with the American policy to become involved. It is only if our rights are invaded that we become resentful and prepare to defend ourselves. Therefore, the entire Western hemisphere is closed off to European powers due to the fact that it is dangerous to our peace and safety. However, existing colonies in the Western hemisphere will not be interefered with. In addition, the United State's policy in regard to Europe remains the same; not to interfere with any internal concerns of its powers while still upholding friendly relations. In conclusion the doctrine states that if the allied powers extend their political system to any part of the continent that it would endanger the U.S's peace and happiness. Therefore other nations should leave other parties to themselves.

LAD # 7 Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

In Jefferson's opening statements in his address he thanks his "fellow-citizens" who are assembled and look toward him. He also makes clear that he is aware of the great task of holding office and states that if he is ever in despair he will look to the wisdom and virtues of other authorities provided by the Constitution. Jefferson also encourages legistlators and associates to guide and support him in order to secure the nation in a safe position despite other elements in a troubled world.
Jefferson continues in his second paragraph to describe some of his goals for the nation. Jefferson calls for unity and the restoration of social intercourse. He also rejects the idea of religious intolerance and promotes the prosperity of a Republican government. Jefferson goes into further detail about how a Republican government has proven to be effective even though its been critized by others for being weak. However the prosperity of a Republic is proven successful when in compared to their former government, a monarchy. Therefore, "with courage and confidence" the nation should continue to pursue the Federalist and Republican principles in order for the people of the nation to be happy and prosperous. A Repbulican government is also necessary due to the fact that it will restrain men from hurting eachother and therefore one will be able to pursue of life of industry and improvement as a result.
Jefferson goes on to say that he will obey all essential laws of the government in hopes that peace, liberty and safety will be regained by the nation during his occupancy in office. Also he then admits thats some of his decisions will be wrong however he will always be considering wrong to someone with a different point of view and asks for "indulgence in his errors." At this, Jefferson ends the address by saying that he will do his best to uphold the extraordinary responsibilities and duties of a president and yet says that he will remain in office until the people decide that he is no longer a good choice to be occupying office.

LAD #5 The Proclamation of Neutrality 1793

A state of war between Austria, Prussia, Sardinia, Great Britain and the United Netherlands against France has forced the United States to take a neutral position toward the Powers. U.S. citizens are warned that they should not act in any way which may alter the position of neutrality. This includes aiding, committing or abetting hostilities to any of the Powers. Citizens who do act in such manner shall be liable to punishment or forfeiture as well as not receive the protection of the United States as a result. This Proclamation of Neutrality of 1793 was issued by George Washington in Philadelphia on April 22, 1793.

LAD #6 Washington's Farewell Address 1796

At the end of Washington's second term of serving as President and expresses concern about the upcoming election. Washington feels that the public should elect someone who is trustworthy because he feels that it is time for him to retire from his presidential duty and retire. Washington states that he would have retired earlier before serving his second term but due to complex foreign affairs he decided to postpone his retirement until after another term. Due to the fact that the circumstances of the country do not render him to run for president again, the public should have no problem with his determination to retire. Although George Washington looks forward to the termination of his career, he does acknowledge gratitute toward his beloved c ountry for its many honors that its given him.

Washington then goes on in his address to confront three main themes. One theme is the rise of sectionalism within the country as well as the increase in political factionalism. He then urges the country to unite as a whole for the good of the country. Washington recognizes the two main parties during the 1790's who were the Federalists and Jeffersonian Republicans. The Federalists, including Washington had pushed for a central bank and other strong central economic plans as well while Jeffersonian Republicans disapproved of a strong central government and favored the thoughts of the farmers instead of city-people.

The second theme of Washington's address is a warning to the U.S. to avoid entanglements of foreign nations especially Europe. Both parties wanted to stay out of wars between France and Britain however the Federalists favored ties with the British while the Republicans wanted to remain loyal to the treaty with France signed in 1788.

The third theme consists of perserving morality. Washington states thats morality is a "necessary spring of popular government."

Washington's Farewell Address was very valuable in that the United States did not get involved in foreign affairs until 1949.

Political Cartoon "Rise it Will"


1. The historical event being represented by the cartoon is the ratification of the Constitution.

2. The author is trying to convey the many positive affects that the ratifacation of the Constituion would have upon the new nation, the United States. The author describes the unification of the states under the Constitution would result in achievements in the arts, agriculture, commerce and wisdom. In addition, the freedom of religion and the maintence of peace would be upheld under the constitution. The author of this cartoon is clearly for the ratification of the Constitution due to the fact that in that all the states would seem to prosper united and under the laws of a strong central government.

3. This cartoon portrayed the process of the unification of the states under a strong central government and the ratification of the Constitution. The final result of this is the approval of the Constitution and its effects that it's had on America over the approximate period of 200 years that it has been implemented.