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Zachary Taylor
Inaugural Address
Monday, March 5, 1849

ELECTED by the American people to the highest office known to our laws,
I appear here to take the oath prescribed by the Constitution, and, in
compliance with a time-honored custom, to address those who are now
assembled.

The confidence and respect shown by my countrymen in calling me to be
the Chief Magistrate of a Republic holding a high rank among the
nations of the earth have inspired me with feelings of the most
profound gratitude; but when I reflect that the acceptance of the
office which their partiality has bestowed imposes the discharge of the
most arduous duties and involves the weightiest obligations, I am
conscious that the position which I have been called to fill, though
sufficient to satisfy the loftiest ambition, is surrounded by fearful
responsibilities. Happily, however, in the performance of my new duties
I shall not be without able cooperation. The legislative and judicial
branches of the Government present prominent examples of distinguished
civil attainments and matured experience, and it shall be my endeavor
to call to my assistance in the Executive Departments individuals whose
talents, integrity, and purity of character will furnish ample
guaranties for the faithful and honorable performance of the trusts to
be committed to their charge. With such aids and an honest purpose to
do whatever is right, I hope to execute diligently, impartially, and
for the best interests of the country the manifold duties devolved upon
me.