The expense of our government is enormous, but the paying of taxes is one way in which all must take part.
Acquisition of New Territory.
While the acquisition of new territory has increased the expenses of our nation, yet it has made us the greatest nation in the world.
We have expanded by acquisition of new possessions which Congress organized under the direct control of the "Federal Government," but giving them limited powers of self government, through legislation of their own. When their population is sufficient they will be admitted as states.
Today our national flag contains forty-eight stars, and no part of the United States except Alaska and Hawaii remains under a territorial form of government.
Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867.
The President of the United States, with the advice and consent of the Senate, appoints the governor and judges of the courts.
They have a legislature composed of two houses whose members are elected by the people. A delegate to Congress with the right to take part in debates but not to vote is also elected by the people.
Hawaii: Hawaii is a regularly organized territory and is governed like Alaska; President appointing the governor with the consent of the Senate, etc.
Possessions: The Philippines, Porto Rico, and other islands are possessions rather than territories of the United States.