February 16

[Writing from Washington on February 16, 1809, during the final weeks of my presidency, I am addressing the General Assembly of Virginia, my native state's legislature with whom I share a lifelong political bond and a deep, foundational commitment to the ideals of the American Revolution. The historical context marks the bitter conclusion of my second presidential term, where the nation's peaceful prosperity is severely threatened by the Napoleonic Wars and the resulting British and French economic decrees that have crippled global commerce despite our strict adherence to neutrality. As I prepare to return to the bosom of Virginia, I humbly credit my presidential achievements to the wisdom of the national legislature and my coadjutors, while fiercely defending the republican form of government as the most rational protector of human rights and property on earth. I deeply lament that no level of forbearance could preserve international peace, yet I express ultimate comfort in leaving the executive office because I see the sacred design of American liberty successfully handed over to a new generation of leaders who are fully determined to defend it.]

I receive with peculiar sensibility the affectionate address of the General Assembly of my native State, on my approaching retirement from the office with which I have been honored by the nation at large. Having been one of those who entered into public life at the commencement of an æra the most extraordinary which the history of man has ever yet presented to his contemplation, I claim nothing more, for the part I have acted in it, than a common merit of having, with others, faithfully endeavored to do my duty in the several stations allotted me. In the measures which you are pleased particularly to approve, I have been aided by the wisdom and patriotism of the national legislature, and the talents and virtues of the able coadjutors with whom it has been my happiness to be associated, and to whose valuable and faithful services I with pleasure and gratitude bear witness.

From the moment that to preserve our rights a change of government became necessary, no doubt could be entertained that a republican form was most consonant with reason, with right, with the freedom of man, and with the character and situation of our fellow citizens. To the sincere spirit of republicanism are naturally associated the love of country, devotion to its liberty, its rights, and its honor. Our preference to that form of government has been so far justified by its success, and the prosperity with which it has blessed us. In no portion of the earth were life, liberty and property ever so securely held; and it is with infinite satisfaction that withdrawing from the active scenes of life, I see the sacred design of these blessings committed to those who are sensible of their value and determined to defend them.

It would have been a great consolation to have left the nation under the assurance of continued peace. Nothing has been spared to effect it; and at no other period of history would such efforts have failed to ensure it. For neither belligerent pretends to have been injured by us, or can say that we have in any instance departed from the most faithful neutrality; and certainly none will charge us with a want of forbearance.

In the desire of peace, but in full confidence of safety from our unity, our position, and our resources, I shall retire into the bosom of my native State, endeared to me by every tie which can attach the human heart. The assurances of your approbation, and that my conduct has given satisfaction to my fellow citizens generally, will be an important ingredient in my future happiness; and that the supreme ruler of the universe may have our country under his special care, will be among the latest of my prayers.