The Safety and Welfare of These States

American Minute from William J. Federer

The British invaded Washington, D.C. The Capitol was burned. President James and Dolly Madison fled the White House.

On SEPTEMBER 1, 1814, President Madison wrote: "The enemy by a sudden incursion has succeeded in invading the capitol of the nation... During their possession...though for a single day only, they wantonly destroyed the public edifices.... An occasion which appeals so forcibly to the...patriotic devotion of the American people, none will forget."

James Madison continued: "Independence...is now to be maintained...with the strength and resources which...Heaven has blessed."

Less than 3 months later, November 1814, President Madison wrote: "The two Houses of the National Legislature having by a joint resolution expressed their desire that in the present time of public calamity and war a day may be recommended to be observed by the people of the United States as a day of public humiliation and fasting and of prayer to Almighty God for the safety and welfare of these States, His blessing on their arms, and a speedy restoration of peace."

James Madison ended "I have deemed it proper...to recommend...a day of...humble adoration to the Great Sovereign of the Universe."

William J. Federer is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and president of Amerisearch, Inc, which is dedicated to researching our American heritage. The American Minute radio feature looks back at events in American history on the dates they occurred, is broadcast daily across the country and read by thousand on the internet.