Launching error

I downloaded Minecraft yesterday, and purchased the license shortly thereafter. After launching the program, immediately after clicking PLAY it starts to load some items in the bottom bar, goes blank, then brings up the main screen with the message ...

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GAME CRASH
An unexpected issue occurred and the game has crashed. We're sorry for the inconvenience.
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And a green "close" button below.

Upon clicking "close" it takes me back to the main screen.

Thanks!