LAD # 28

Summary of Wilson's First Inaugural

Woodrow Wilson starts off his speech by emphasizing the dominance of the Democratic Party in government, and convincingly proclaims that change will be brought about. He declares, despite America's prior success, that this greatness has come with nature's destruction, inexcusable waste, high death rates, indifference to the people, and over-taxation. He brings up the idea that "our work is a work of restoration," and that correcting the  "evil" that has happened is much needed, and in fact, necessary. He address the tariff, the banking/ currency system, the industrial system, and the environment, and admits that these are issues that need some change. He talks about the government's duty to protect its people, and he declares the necessity of implementing sanitation laws, pure food laws, and laws that set a standard for working conditions. Lastly, he announces, "we shall restore, not destroy", promising change and requesting all to join in the efforts.