Jefferson begins by humbling accepting the task of president, and that this task is almost too great for him. As he looks ahead to the development of this new nation, he can not fully understand the power that has been given to him. So he will look to the Constitution as a guide to help him steer America on the right course in these critical times.
He then explains the power that the people are giving up to make this new nation function. Everyone will align themselves under the Constitution, and the power of the majority will always prevail. The majority still has to respect the ideas and principles of the minority, and all will be heard. He urges the people to reject the religious and political intolerance that plagued Europe, and to unite under the idea of Republicanism. He doesn't advocate the punishment of those that think differently, but encourages them to share their opinions to prove the equality this new nation provides. He doesn't ignore the people that say this new democracy is too weak, but only replies with question. Where have the nations that let "angels" rule them ended up? History shows us the answer.
He then pushes his fellow Americans to pursue the idea of a Republican government, because it is what separates them from the Europeans that had once ruled over them. He stresses the fact that everyone is entitled to the same things, but they have to be reached through civil contributions and not just by their position at birth. The work of these people will make America powerful and prosperous. He says that it is also important that a good government protects is people from causing harm, while allowing them the ability to control their own lives.
As he nears the end of his speech Jefferson sums up what he thinks the United States government should be. The most important to him which include: full agreement with the will of the majority; the maintenance of a militia, until regular soldiers are trained; freedom of speech, the press, trial by jury;equal justice to all men irregardless of their views or background; support of the State's rights to domestic policy and support of the Federal Governments foreign policy.
He finishes by saying that he will try to uphold these principles, and asks in advance for the unintentional mistakes he will inevitably make as he tries to guide America in the right direction.
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