ld be
direct and frank, neither seeking to obtain more nor accepting less than
is our due. We ought to cherish a sacred regard for the independence of
all nations, and never attempt to interfere in the domestic concerns of
any unless this shall be imperatively required by the great law of
self-preservation. To avoid entangling alliances has been a maxim of
our policy ever since the days of Washington, and its wisdom's no one
will attempt to dispute. In short, we ought to do justice in a kindly
spirit to all nations and require justice from them in return.

It is our glory that whilst other nations have extended their dominions
by the sword we have never acquired any territory except by fair
purchase or, as in the case of Texas, by the voluntary determination of
a brave, kindred, and independent people to blend their destinies with
our own. Even our acquisitions from Mexico form no exception. Unwilling
to take advantage of the fortune of war against a sister republic, we
purchased these possessions under the treaty of peace for a sum which
was considered at the time a fair equivalent. Our past history forbids
that we shall in the future acquire territory unless this be sanctioned
by the laws of justice and honor. Acting on this principle, no nation
will have a right to interfere or to complain if in the progress of
events we shall still further extend our possessions. Hitherto in all
our acquisitions the people, under the protection of the American flag,
have enjoyed civil and religious liberty, as well as equal and just
laws, and have been contented, prosperous, and happy. Their trade with
the rest of the world has rapidly increased, and thus every commercial
nation has shared largely in their successful progress.

I shall now proceed to take the oath prescribed by the Constitution,
whilst humbly invoking the blessing of Divine Providence on this great
people.

* * * * *

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, FIRST INAUGURAL ADDRESS

MONDAY, MARCH 4, 1861

[Transcriber's note: The national upheaval of secession was a grim
reality at Abraham Lincoln's inauguration. Jefferson Davis had been
inaugurated as the President of the Confederacy two weeks earlier. The
former Illinois Congressman had arrived in Washington by a secret route
to avoid danger, and his movements were guarded by General Winfield
Scott's soldiers. Ignoring advice to the contrary, the President-elect
rode with President Buchanan in an open carriage to the