Thomas Hart Benton's Remarks to the Senate on the Expunging Resolution

"Thomas Hart Benton's Remarks to the Senate on the Expunging Resolution by Benton" is a political speech delivered in the 19th century, specifically during the period surrounding President Andrew Jackson's administration. As an important historical account, the document reflects the contentious political atmosphere of the time, focusing on the expunging of a resolution that condemned President Jackson. The speech represents Benton’s defense of Jackson, underscoring themes of justice, public sentiment, and the rightful authority of the people in a representative government. In his remarks, Benton argues passionately for the expunging of a resolution that he believes wrongfully condemned President Jackson, who had faced numerous political attacks throughout his presidency. He elaborates on the overwhelming public support for Jackson, citing recent elections and widespread public sentiment favoring the expurgation. Benton contrasts the previous accusations against Jackson with the current reality, asserting that Jackson’s administration, contrary to predictions of ruin, brought peace and restored America’s respect internationally. The speech serves as a call to honor the democratic will of the people and a reflection on Jackson's legacy, advocating that history will ultimately recognize his contributions positively. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Thomas Hart Benton, nicknamed "Old Bullion", was an American politician, attorney, soldier, and longtime United States Senator from Missouri. A member of the Democratic Party, he was an architect and champion of westward expansion by the United States, a cause that became known as manifest destiny. Benton served in the Senate from 1821 to 1851, becoming the first member of that body to serve five terms. He was born in North Carolina.