Conspectus of the History of Political Parties and the Federal Government/1875 American National Party Platform
The American National Platform, adopted in mass meeting, Pittsburg, June 9.
We hold:
1. That ours is a Christian and not a heathen nation, and that the God of the Christian Scriptures is the author of civil government.
2. That God requires and man needs a Sabbath.
3. That the prohibition of the importation, manufacture, and sale of intoxicating drinks as a beverage, is the true policy on the temperance question.
4. The charters of all secret lodges granted by our federal and state legislatures should be withdrawn, and their oaths prohibited by law.
5. That the civil equality secured to all American citizens by articles 13th, 14th, and 15th of our amended constitution should be preserved inviolate.
6. That arbitration of differences with nations is the most direct and sure method of securing and perpetuating a permanent peace.
7. That to cultivate the intellect without improving the morals of men is to make mere adepts and experts: therefore, the Bible should be associated with books of science and literature in all our educational institutions.
8. That land and other monopolies should be discountenanced.
9. That the government should furnish the people with an ample and sound currency and a return to specie payment, as soon as practicable.
10. That maintenance of the public credit, protection to all loyal citizens, and justice to Indians are essential to the honor and safety of our nation.
11. And, finally, we demand for the American people the abolition of electoral colleges, and a direct vote for President and Vice-President of the United States.
[Their candidates were James B. Walker, Wheaton, Illinois, for President; and Donald Kirkpatrick, Syracuse, New York, for Vice-President.]