In the beginning of our government we were willing to introduce the least coercion possible on the will of the citizen. Hence a system of military duty was established too indulgent to his indolence. This (War of 1812) is the first opportunity we have had of trying it, and it has completely failed; an issue […]
Thomas Jefferson Quotes
The article of discipline is the most difficult in American education. Premature ideas of independence, too little repressed by parents, beget a spirit of insubordination, which is the great obstacle to science with us and a principle cause of its decay since the revolution. I look to it with dismay in our institution, as a […]
I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them, but to inform their discretion by education.
I am for relying on internal defense on our militia solely, till actual invasion. . . and not for a standing army in times of peace, which may overawe the public sentiment.
We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable; that all men are created equal and independent, that from that equal creation they derive rights inherent and inalienable, among which are the preservation of life, and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
My creed had been formed on unsheathing the sword at Lexington.
A coward is much more exposed to quarrels than a man of spirit.
It is a very dangerous doctrine to consider the judges as the ultimate arbiters of all constitutional questions. It is one which would place us under the despotism of an oligarchy.
For in a warm climate, no man will labor for himself who can make another labor for him. This is so true, that of the proprietors of slaves a very small proportion indeed are ever seen to labor. And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm […]
My affections were first for my own country, then, generally, for all mankind.
