Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Appointing Robert R. Livingston Minister to France
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00639.17 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Place Written: Washington Type: Document signed Date: 2 October 1801 Pagination: 1 vellum sheet ; 30 x 38 cm. Order a Copy
Countersigned by Madison as Secretary of State. Livingston was appointed to gain secured access to New Orleans, by purchase if necessary. However, Livingston exceeded his instructions by buying the Louisiana Territory.
Notes: Livingston helped negotiate the Louisiana purchase from France.
Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States of America,
To Robert R. Livingston, Greeting: -
Reposing especial trust and confidence in your integrity, prudence and ability, I have nominated and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint you the said Robert R. Livingston, Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of France, authorising you hereby to do and perform all such matters and things, as to the said place or office do appertain, or as may be duly given you in charge hereafter, and the said office to hold and exercise, during the pleasure of the President of the United States for the time being.
In Testimony whereof I have caused these letters to be made patent, and caused the seal of the said United States to be hereto affixed. Given under my hand, at the City of Washington, the second day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the twenty sixth.
Th: Jefferson
By the President
James Madison Secretary of State
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