Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1520 establishes two important and historically based commissions. One commission recognizes the explorations of Henry Hudson and Robert Fulton in New York and Vermont, and the other recognizes Samuel de Champlain's discoveries in the same region. The overall goal of the Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemoration Commission is to plan, develop, and perform activities to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage on the New York river named in his honor and the 200th anniversary of Robert Fulton's voyage. In 1609, Englishman Henry Hudson, under the direction of the Dutch East India Company, was named the first European to sail up the river later to be named for him and his significant exploration. In 1807, Robert Fulton's breakthrough use of commercial steam navigation revolutionized water-based commerce, naval warfare, and international relations. It was these important expeditions which brought about the earliest encounters of Native Americans and Europeans. These voyages introduced new methods of commerce and trade and also introduced new religious beliefs, cultural exchange, and traditions which extend into the present day.”