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Primary sourceSpeech4 March 1837

Inaugural Address of Martin Van Buren

Martin Van Buren · 4 March 1837

Van Buren's 1837 inaugural speech, pledging continuity with Jackson's policies and taking a strong stand against abolishing slavery in Washington, D.C.

Van Buren delivered this speech himself upon becoming president, stating his guiding principles including his stance on slavery.

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About this source

What it is

This is the speech Martin Van Buren delivered on 4 March 1837 when he became president. It is held by the National Archives and Library of Congress.

Why it matters

In the address, Van Buren promised to follow the path set by his predecessor, Andrew Jackson, and declared himself firmly opposed to ending slavery in the District of Columbia. It shows how a new president tried to reassure supporters of continuity while also taking a clear position on one of the most divisive issues of his time.

Look closer

  • Why might a new president want to stress continuity with his predecessor?
  • What does his statement on slavery tell you about the political pressures he faced?
  • What is left unsaid about the people affected by this policy?

This speech is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of Martin Van Buren on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

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