According to The American Pageant, Thomas Jefferson's first Inaugural Address was "a classic statement of democratic principles". Tom explained in the beginning of the speech that the power is for the people. He alludes to the U.S. Constitution at points, encouraging the people to "unite in common efforts for the common good". Jefferson also states that "The will of the majority is in all cases to prevail", but he also guarantees that "minority possess their equal rights, which equal law must protect, and to violate would be oppression". Jefferson also instilled a sense of patriotism, or positive expression of emotion towards one's country, among the audience when he said, "I believe this...the strongest Government on earth. I believe it the only one where every man, at the call of the law, would fly to the standard of the law, and would meet invasions of the public order as his own personal concern." Nearing the speech's conclusion, Jefferson requests the help of the people of the nation in declaring, "I advance with obedience to the work, ready to retire from it whenever you become sensible how much better choice it is in your power to make. And may that Infinite Power which rules the destinies of the universe lead our councils to what is best, and give them a favorable issue for your peace and prosperity".
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