The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.
Tag: Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), U.S. Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd U.S. President.
Arms are a protection against government tyranny
The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.
Arms for free men
No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.
Too much government is bad
My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. That government is best which governs least.
Happiness lies in avoiding socialism
I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them.
Pay as you go
It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world.
Wealth transfer means the death of freedom
The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not.
Big cities and corruption
When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe.
Keep rebellion alive
The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions, that I wish it to be always kept alive … I like a little rebellion now and then. It is like a storm in the atmosphere.
Strong government
A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.