Abstract
When he delivered his first annual message in 1801, Thomas Jefferson departed from prior presidential practice and delivered the message to Congress in writing rather than as a speech. Scholars have differed over the meaning and significance of his action. This article examines new historical evidence on the question. The evidence is a commentary in Jefferson's presidential newspaper that explained the reasons for his action; a letter Jefferson wrote explaining his action; and commentaries on the action from Federalist Party opposition newspapers.
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