LAD: Jefferson's First Inaugural Address

In Jefferson's first inaugural address given on March 4th, 1801, he thanks the nation for voting for him, and realizes the magnitude of the responsibilities he has acquired. He states that he has "shrunk from the contemplation," and has "humbled himself." He later goes into pre-thanking the legislatures he will be working with and will always look to them for guidance and support. He also uses metaphor, comparing the United States to a ship, saying that between him and Congress, they will "be able to steer with safety the vessel in which we are all embarked amidst the conflicting elements of a troubled world." Jefferson later states the importance of the democratic principles instituted in the United States. He emphasizes the point that the majority will prevail in a reasonably fashion, and that the minority will always be guaranteed their rights. Jefferson continues on thanking the people of the United States, but also warns them that they will not always agree with his decisions. He states his errors will never be intentional ones, and he asks for them to comprehend this fact. He later asks for the support against others who feel their errors are never wrong. Jefferson leads into his final words, stating that he is going to undertake the position of the presidency with dedication, yet he will step down whenever the people feel it is necessary. In other words, when the people vote against him, he will gladly step down.