The Indian knew how to live without wants, to suffer without complaint, and to die singing.

It would seem that if despotism were to be established among the democratic nations of our days, it might assume a different character; it would be more extensive and more mild; it would degrade men without tormenting them. I do not question that, in an age of instruction and equality like our own, sovereigns might more easily succeed in collecting all political power into their own hands and might interfere more habitually and decidedly with the circle of private interests than any sovereign of antiquity could ever do.

Trade is the natural enemy of all violent passions. Trade loves moderation, delights in compromise, and is most careful to avoid anger. It is patient, supple, and insinuating, only resorting to extreme measures in cases of absolute necessity.

Nothing is more annoying in the ordinary intercourse of life than this irritable patriotism of the Americans. A foreigner will gladly agree to praise much in their country, but he would like to be allowed to criticize something, and that he is absolutely refused.

It must not be forgotten that it is especially dangerous to enslave men in the minor details of life.

Grant me thirty years of equal division of inheritances and a free press, and I will provide you with a republic.

The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colours breaking through.