William Jennings Bryan to Woodrow Wilson

William Jennings Bryan to Woodrow Wilson

Bryan, William Jennings, 1860-1925

WWP18148

1913 November 5

William Jennings Bryan writes to Woodrow Wilson about a treaty supporting territorial limitations for countries in the western hemisphere.

Wilson Papers, Library of Congress, Library of Congress, Washington, District of Columbia

Wilson, Woodrow, 1856-1924--Correspondence

Mr. President

I take the liberty of enclosing a letter from Mr. Slayden, which accompanies a resolution which he has introduced in the House. He suggests that this nation propose to the other nations of this hemisphere a treaty in which all shall join whereby the territorial limitations of the countries shall be observed.
I am inclined to think that such a proposition presented by us would emphasize our intention of respecting their territorial rights and it might lead to a treaty which would prevent wars between the countries. The proposition is, at least, worth considering. There are some unsettled boundary questions now, but the treaty could provide for the adjustment of thisese by reference of the disputes to the Hague Court or to some court to be established for hearing them. If we can once get the boundary lines fixed and then secure an agreement that these shall stand except where changed by mutual agreement and without resort to force, it would tend to make peace more certain in this hemisphere.

With assurances of respect, etc., I am, my dear Mr. President,
WJ Bryan


The President,
The White House.

Letter

Wilson, Woodrow, 1856-1924