Martin Van Buren Speeches

This collection offers access to selected speeches by Martin Van Buren, the eighth President of the United States. The speeches provide a window into his public positions on a range of issues, including party politics, government structure, and national events of the era.

Disclaimer:
The speeches presented here reflect the language and views of Martin Van Buren and his lifetime, spanning the late 18th to mid-19th century. Readers should be aware that historical language may not align with modern values or usage. We offer these texts to foster understanding of the period and the perspectives that shaped it.

 

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  Van Buren's Inaugural Address

  Martin Van Buren honored past presidents, praised U.S. progress, and vowed to oppose abolitionist efforts.

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  September 4, 1837: Special Session

  In his September 1837 message, Van Buren addressed the Panic of 1837, proposing an Independent Treasury and urging unity amid economic and p

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  First Annual Message to Congress

  Van Buren’s 1837 message proposed an Independent Treasury, urged fiscal caution, and backed continued relocation of Indigenous people.

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  Second Annual Message to Congress

  In his second message to Congress, Van Buren backed his Treasury plan and framed Indigenous removal as national progress.

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  Third Annual Message to Congress

  Martin Van Buren backed the Treasury plan, highlighted diplomatic affairs and defended continued Indigenous removal.

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  Fourth Annual Message to Congress

  Martin Van Buren highlighted fiscal discipline and foreign peace, while he ignored slavery and defended harsh Indigenous removal policies.