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The article presents a letter of instruction written by United States President Thomas Jefferson to Meriwether Lewis, captain of the 1st Regiment of Infantry of the United States of America. Jefferson details the equipment and supplies to be provided to Lewis on his mission, including mapping equipment, men, boats, ammunition, and medical supplies. Jefferson says that Lewis's mission has been communicated to the Ministers of France, Spain, and Great Britain, who have agreed to let Lewis pass through their territories outside the U.S. The mission, Jefferson explains, is to explore the Missouri river to see if it leads to the Pacific Ocean in any way, in the hopes of finding the most direct and practical way across the continent by water, for the purpose of commerce.

Presents the confidential message which the United States president sent to Congress about his plans for an expedition he sent across the continent to the Pacific Ocean. Background of relations with the Indian tribes dwelling with the United States' borders; Importance of bringing civilization to the Indians; How an expedition would be set up and financed; Importance of extending the nation's borders, especially along the Mississippi River.

Presents the author's letter to Governor James Monroe of Virginia, dated November 24, 1801 about the resolution passed by the Virginia House of Representatives regarding the accommodation of Negroes in the United States territory. His belief about the importance of the resolution; The more probable and practicable place for the Negroes; More information.

Presents a letter dated March 14, 1818 from the former United States president to Nathaniel Burwell, in response to Burwell's letter to him about female education.

The article presents the 1779 draft of a bill, written by American politician Thomas Jefferson in the General Assembly of Virginia, which would establish religious freedom in America. The legislation contains three sections that pertain to civil rights and freedom from religious persecution. The focus is on the rights of individuals to choose their own beliefs and not be required by law to contribute money to religious opinions that they do not believe in. Jefferson makes the assertion that these rights are the "natural rights of mankind."

The article presents the text of a letter by former American President Thomas Jefferson written to John Holmes on April 22, 1820. The letter discusses the political and social issues surrounding Missouri's admittance as a state. Jefferson addresses the future of the Union in the case of Missouri's admittance as either a slave or free state. The letter focuses on the practice of slavery in Missouri as a key issue in its qualification for statehood. The right of the Congress to intervene in state politics is discussed. Jefferson's letter predicts negative consequences for U.S. politics if Missouri's statehood were approved.

Presents the text of a letter to John Norvell, dated June 11, 1807, in which the responsibilities of the American press are discussed. The problem of misreporting; The proper attitude which journalists should have.