After the civil war

 

Governor's Message to the General Assembly of the State of [State Name], at Its Regular Session, January, 1867

[Governor's Name]

Gentlemen of the General Assembly:

In addressing you at the commencement of your regular session, I am happy to be able to congratulate you upon the improved condition of the State. The war, which for four years desolated our land, has come to an end, and peace has been restored. Our people are returning to their homes and to the pursuits of industry, and the State is rapidly recovering from the effects of the conflict.

The most important question that will claim your attention is that of the reconstruction of the State government upon a basis that will secure the equal rights of all citizens, and the permanent peace and prosperity of the State. The Constitution of the United States has been amended so as to abolish slavery, and to guarantee to all citizens equal civil and political rights. This is a radical change in our fundamental law, and it involves important consequences. It is now the duty of the State to enact such laws as are necessary to carry into effect the provisions of the Constitution, and to secure to all citizens the rights and privileges to which they are entitled.

In my opinion, the first step in the process of reconstruction should be the adoption of a new State Constitution. The present Constitution was framed in 18[year], before the war, and it does not contain any provisions for the protection of the rights of freedmen. A new Constitution should be adopted that will guarantee to all citizens equal civil and political rights, without regard to race or color.

Another important question that will claim your attention is that of the education of the freedmen. The great majority of the freedmen are illiterate, and it is essential to their well-being that they should be educated. I recommend that you establish a system of public schools for the freedmen, and that you make provision for their support.

The financial condition of the State is not good. The war has left us with a heavy debt, and our resources are much diminished. It is important, therefore, that you should be economical in your expenditures. I recommend that you make provision for the payment of the interest on the State debt, and for the support of the State government, and that you postpone all unnecessary expenditures until the financial condition of the State improves.

I recommend also that you pass laws to encourage immigration and to promote the development of the State's resources. Our State is rich in natural resources, and it offers a wide field for the investment of capital. By encouraging immigration and promoting the development of our resources, we can increase the wealth of the State and improve the condition of all our people.

In conclusion, I would urge you to approach the important questions that will claim your attention with wisdom and moderation. The future of the State depends upon your action. Let us all work together to heal the wounds of war and to rebuild our State upon a basis of justice and equality.