Non-fiction: Annual Message to Congress, 1857

Overview and context
James Buchanan's 1857 Annual Message to Congress presents a comprehensive presidential review at a moment of mounting domestic strain and expanding global commerce. Delivered as the nation reeled from political fights over slavery and from recent economic distress, the message frames the administration's view of constitutional duty, the condition of the public credit, and the federal role in managing foreign relations and territorial questions. Buchanan speaks as a constitutional conservative who seeks to soothe sectional discord by urging legal obedience and firm executive action.

Economic and fiscal report
The message reports on trade, revenue, and the public finances against the backdrop of the financial contraction that began in 1857. Buchanan emphasizes the general soundness of the national debt and the maintenance of public credit while acknowledging distress among banks, merchants, and manufacturers. He advocates prudence in congressional responses, warning against hasty or extreme measures that would unsettle commerce, and suggests that careful legislation to preserve confidence and commerce is preferable to radical interference with private enterprise.

Slavery, sectional tensions, and the courts
Buchanan addresses the great sectional controversy directly, insisting that disputes over slavery must be resolved according to the Constitution and the decisions of the federal judiciary. He frames the enforcement of federal laws, including those concerning property and fugitives, as essential to maintaining order and protecting rights. The message urges respect for the Supreme Court's role in interpreting the Constitution and cautions against permitting political agitation to override settled legal authority, portraying adherence to law as the best safeguard of the Union.

Territorial policy and Kansas
Territorial organization and the question of whether new territories would permit slavery receive central attention. Buchanan stresses the need for clear and lawful territorial governments and presses Congress to act so that new territories may be properly organized and their inhabitants governed under constitutional protections. He addresses the contest over Kansas with particular urgency, calling for a lawful resolution that recognizes the rights of settlers and the authority of territorial institutions, and urges Congress to legislate in ways that provide stability and finality to territorial controversies.

Foreign affairs and recommendations
On international matters Buchanan reports generally favorable relations with major powers and outlines priorities for American diplomacy and commerce. He points to the importance of preserving free navigation, securing commercial treaties, and protecting American citizens and interests abroad. The message recommends continued attention to Central American routes and to measures that promote safe and profitable channels of trade, while advocating a measured foreign policy that advances national prosperity without entangling the country in unnecessary commitments.

Concluding appeal
Buchanan closes with an appeal to Congress for deliberate, constitutional statesmanship to navigate a perilous moment. He calls for laws and policies that respect property and legal processes, promote economic recovery, and steady foreign relations, arguing that fidelity to the Constitution and calm legislative action are the means to preserve peace and union. The message blends administrative reporting with political counsel, seeking to shepherd the nation through sectional tension and financial uncertainty by reaffirming legal order and prudent federal governance.