Quote by Thomas Jefferson
The character of our coasts, remarkable in considerable parts of it for admitting no vessels of size to pass near the shores, would entitle us, in reason, to as broad a margin of protected navigation, as any nation whatever. Not proposing, however, at this time, and without a respectful and friendly communication with the Powers interested in this navigation, to fix on a distance to which we may ultimately insist on the right of protection, the President gives instructions to the officers, acting under this authority, to consider those heretofore given them as restrained for the present to the distance of one sea-league, or three geographical miles from the sea-shore. This distance can admit of no opposition as it is recognized by treaties between some of the Powers with whom we are connected in commerce and navigation, and is as little or less than is claimed by any of them on their own coasts.
Summary
This quote explains that due to the nature of our coasts, which often do not allow large vessels to come close to shore, the United States has a reasonable claim to a wide area of protected navigation. However, the President is not currently proposing a specific distance for this protection without first discussing it with other nations involved in navigation in the area. In the meantime, the President instructs the officers to consider the previously given instructions as valid within a distance of one sea-league (equivalent to three geographical miles) from the shoreline. This distance is commonly recognized and accepted within treaties with other nations for navigation rights.
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