Context: In 1817, President James Monroe traveled across parts of the United States on a goodwill tour. During the trip, he visited communities, met with citizens, and gave speeches that encouraged Americans to work together and support the young nation. The excerpts below come from two of Monroe's speeches during that tour.
Excerpt 1
In the pursuit of great national objects, it is equally the interest and the duty of the whole American people to unite. Happy in a government which secures to us the full enjoyment of all our civil and religious rights, we have every inducement to unite in its support. With such union we have nothing to dread from foreign powers.
Excerpt 2
Every where in our country the reflecting mind cannot fail to observe the blessings of a free government. Living under a Constitution which secures equal, civil, religious and political rights to all, it is a great consolation in administering it, that the people have formed so just an estimate of its value, and from rational conviction and not from blind prejudices, are sincerely devoted to its preservation.
I hope that this just confidence in the stability of our government may continue to increase; and if it does, it cannot fail to produce the happiest effects by encouraging a love of our country, and an honest zeal to promote its best and permanent interests. Happy shall I be, if my exertions in the public service shall be so far successful, that they may assist the industry and enterprize of my fellow citizens, in increasing the general prosperity.
Glossary
administering: managing or carrying out the work of running a government or organization
consolation: comfort or reassurance during a difficult or disappointing time
conviction: a strong belief that something is true or important
devoted: loyal and committed to a person, cause, or idea
enterprize (enterprise): willingness to work hard and take initiative to achieve a goal
inducement: something that encourages or motivates someone to do something
prosperity: a state of success, wealth, or economic growth
rational: based on careful thinking and good judgment
zeal: great energy and enthusiasm for a cause or goal
