Editor’s Note: Some of these quotes are attributed to the author but cannot be 100% proven, lacking a verifiable source. No matter who said them, they can stand on their own as they have taken ahold of our hearts, our minds, and our desire for democracy in this sometimes-troubled world.
A quote from each of the Founding Fathers.
1 ) “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.” ~ Thomas Jefferson (Or, possibly, Edmund Burke. Also, maybe, John Stuart Mill.)
2 ) “Anyone who trades liberty for security deserves neither liberty nor security” ~ Benjamin Franklin
3 ) “If we do not lay out ourselves in the service of mankind whom should we serve?” ~ John Adams (Actually, it is perhaps more accurately attributed to Abigail Adams.)
4 ) “Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism.” ~ George Washington
5 ) “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.” ~ Patrick Henry (Maybe)
6 ) “In Republics, the great danger is, that the majority may not sufficiently respect the rights of the minority.” ~ James Madison
7 ) “There is a certain enthusiasm in liberty, that makes human nature rise above itself, in acts of bravery and heroism.” ~ Alexander Hamilton
8 ) “Those who own the country ought to govern it.” ~ John Jay
*Bonus Quote: “Enlighten the people generally, and tyranny and oppressions of body and mind will vanish like evil spirits at the dawn of day. ~ Thomas Jefferson
My favorite is the bonus quote… What is your’s? Please share it in the comment section below, and enjoy the Fourth of July!
Bonus!
This is true patriotism:
—
Elephant Spirituality is now on twitter… Click here to follow us!
Elephant Spirituality is an example of Elephant Journal’s commitment to the Mindful Life. We look to provide a fresh and practical perspective on traditional spirituality. If you would like to follow Elephant Spirituality on FaceBook click here and become a fan of Elephant Spirituality by clicking the “Like” tab at the top of the page.
Share on bsky
This account does not have permission to comment on Elephant Journal.
Contact support with questions.