Synthesized answer
The passages mention an "appalling calamity" that befell the American people, but do not provide specific details about this calamity [1]. However, Arthur attributes the loss of a "loved and illustrious citizen who was but lately the head of the nation" to "that mysterious exercise of His will" [2]. This language suggests a framing of the calamity as an act of divine providence, something beyond human control or understanding.
This rhetorical choice serves to present the event as divinely ordained, fostering a sense of submission and sorrow rather than anger or a call for specific action against human agency. For a late 19th-century American audience, accustomed to expressions of faith and a belief in a guiding hand in national events, this framing might have encouraged acceptance of the loss and a focus on remembrance and national unity in the face of such an event [2]. The passages do not offer further analysis of the rhetorical purpose or specific interpretations by the audience.
Synthesized from the book passages below. Chat with the book on Feynman for follow-up.
From the book
Produced by James Linden. HTML version by Al Haines. State of the Union Addresses of Chester A. Arthur The addresses are separated by three asterisks: *** Dates of addresses by Chester A. Arthur in this eBook: December 6, 1881 December 4, 1882 December 4, 1883 December 1, 1884 *** State of the Union Address Chester A. Arthur December 6, 1881 To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: An appalling calamity has befallen the American people since their chosen representatives last met in the halls where you are now assembled. We…
ese manifestations of His favor we owe to Him who holds our destiny in His hands the tribute of our grateful devotion. To that mysterious exercise of His will which has taken from us the loved and illustrious citizen who was but lately the head of the nation we bow in sorrow and submission. The memory of his exalted character, of his noble achievements, and of his patriotic life will be treasured forever as a sacred possession of the whole people. The announcement of his death drew from foreign governments and peoples tributes of sympathy and sorrow which history will record as signal…
Arthur December 1, 1884 To the Congress of the United States: Since the close of your last session the American people, in the exercise of their highest right of suffrage, have chosen their Chief Magistrate for the four years ensuing. When it is remembered that at no period in the country's history has the long political contest which customarily precedes the day of the national election been waged with greater fervor and intensity, it is a subject of general congratulation that after the controversy at the polls was over, and while the slight preponderance by which the issue had…
of vexed questions respecting Presidential inability are measures which may justly receive your serious consideration. As the time draws nigh when I am to retire from the public service, I can not refrain from expressing to the members of the National Legislature with whom I have been brought into personal and official intercourse my sincere appreciation of their unfailing courtesy and of their harmonious cooperation with the Executive in so many measures calculated to promote the best interests of the nation. And to my fellow-citizens generally I acknowledge a deep sense of obligation…
Arthur December 4, 1882 To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States: It is provided by the Constitution that the President shall from time to time give to the Congress information of the state of the Union and recommend to their consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient. In reviewing the events of the year which has elapsed since the commencement of your sessions, I first call your attention to the gratifying condition of our foreign affairs. Our intercourse with other powers has continued to be of the most friendly character. Such…
More questions about this book
- How does President Arthur's opening address, particularly his description of the "appalling calamity," set the tone for his presidency and shape the initial message to the American people and Congress?
- Arthur transitions from a national tragedy to a discussion of "rare prosperity" and then foreign relations. How does he skillfully navigate these distinct subjects within the limited scope of an opening address, and what does this reveal about the perceived responsibilities of a President during this period?
- Consider the various international relations mentioned – from the tributes after the "calamity" to the Fortune Bay claims and the Panama Canal. What common threads or emerging themes can you identify regarding America's place and priorities on the global stage in 1881?
- If you had to explain the core message and the most significant challenges and triumphs articulated in this excerpt to a contemporary audience unfamiliar with 19th-century American history, how would you simplify Arthur's points to ensure clear understanding without losing the historical context?