John Jay (1745-1829) WHO HE WAS: John Jay was an influential American statesman and a Founding Father of the United States. He co-authored the Federalist Papers, served as the first Chief Justice of the United States, and was the Governor of New York. His diplomatic efforts were crucial to the establishment and early governance of
In early 1796, President George Washington decided not to seek election to a third term as United States president. Later that year, his 32-page farewell address appeared in Philadelphia’s American Daily Advertiser. The outgoing president Washington urged Americans to avoid excessive political party spirit, geographical distinctions, and entanglements with foreign nations—issues that resonate today. President George Washington: Farewell
James Monroe (1758-1831) WHO HE WAS: James Monroe was the fifth President of the United States, serving from 1817 to 1825. Before his presidency, Monroe was a statesman, lawyer, diplomat, and founding father who played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and the formative years of the United States. WHAT HE SAID: “The best
Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804) WHO HE WAS: Alexander Hamilton was a founding father of the United States, an influential interpreter and promoter of the U.S. Constitution, the founder of the nation’s financial system, and the founder of the first American political party. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton was the main author of the
