The Shasta courier., 1854-08-12
Whig Platform.

The following are the preamble and resolu
tions unanimously passed by the late Whig State
Convention. They constitute the platform upon
which TIE Whig party stand in the present con-
test:
To the people Of California:
FELLOW C1TIzEys THE condition of vour
State demanding reformation, calls upon you 10
naugurate the rule of honesty, and put an end
to abuses and evils which the parasitical and
witherug results of mal-ad ministration and bad
government.
From Washington to Clay, we refer to an un-
serried line of patriotism, alike in adversely and
in prosperity, the protectors of our country
The Union can only be advanced by the pres
ervation of principles and the advancement of
measures that in their NATIoNAEITY command
the support of every American.
We point to the Wing administrations, from
Washington to Fillmore, as having exemplihed
devotion to the Constitution, fidelity to the Un-
ion and paternal care for the honor happiness
and prosperity of the country.
The welfare of California and its imperiled
integrity require a revolution of public affairs.
In such change will be insured good govern
ment, economy in its exercise, rigid adherence
TO the laws, and strict accountability of all in
authority to the tribunal of public opinion.
Aid US to reduce the taxes; to unshackle
commerce; to remove the ant-republcan re-
strictions to trade imposed by venal legislation
above all Join us in the effort tu restore the pu-
rity of the ballot box and the freedom of cleo
tions; TO make secure the life, liberty and prop
erty Of every citizen.
We proclaim the building of the Pacific Rail-
road to be the paramount duty OF the Govern
ment of the United States, as furnishing, when
completed the best and surest means OF nation
al defense.
We desire the adoption and perfection of the
best system OF common school education, and
to yield aid in all possible ways to learning and
science. We demand publication of the judg-
ment scat aad revision Of the statutes. In this
spirit we present our canddates-confdently
looking for your approval Of our principles at the
ballot box.
Resolued That the Wings Of California. in
common with the Wings of the Union, regard
the building of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad
as of paramount national Importance, believing
its construction strengthens aud perpetuates the
bond linking this continent together; marvel
ously increases the general prosperity, and for
ever removes from this immense travel all and
every danger-rendering secure the lives of
myrads and the immense property which will
pass over its lines-demand from the Congress
of the United States and every branch of the
General Government that instant action which
blessing so vast and immeasurable to our own
and every other land requires at their hands.
Resolved, That for these reasons, as well as
regarding it the foremost-as it is the surest-
means of perfected national defense, and q
vindication of the great and vital American
principle for which Wings have always conten-
ded, we will never cease to implore the Nation.
al Legislature, and urge upon the Executive the
pursuit and furtherance Of this measure, one
of the first duties they owe to their country.
Resolued, That regard the public domain
as the property of the people OF the United
States aud insist that California shall receive
her full and entire share thereof, to aid in the
construction of her railroads, the fostering oi
education, the diffusion of knowledge, and the
endowment of common schools, colleges and
universities.
Resolred, That we hold as a changeless Wing
principle the duty of the law to protect invio-
late the property of all classes-the miner, the
mechanic the agriculturalist and the trader
and we denounce every measure or system o.
measures. the eject of which would be 10 rob
industry of its natural reward, and deprive hon
est labor of its hardly acquired earnings
| Resolped. That California demands from Con-
sress and the Executive such prompt action as
will secure the immediate completion OF the sur
yey of the public lands. and put period to the
yexatious DELAYS of the Land Commission.
Resolred. That the Wings of California hold
the right of the people of the Territories of the
United States to determine and legislate foi
| themselves to be inherent; ard, as such. when
ever the population entities them to form State
Constitution. they possess the authority to do Sc
| without the interference Of and independent oi
any other power.
| Resolred. That it is the trne interest OF the
| Government to secure to every actual settler
upon the public lands in the United States a
competent homestead.
| Resolued, That in reference 10 The nllnera
| lands of the State, the property OF the DniIec
States, and the disposition Of mining privileges
we regard the miners as the Grst parties whose
interest and proper wishes should have creates
weight in settling and determining these i'm
| portant matters.
ResolrYd. That the revenue collected by th'
Genera! Government in California, prior TO be