In a free government the demand for moral qualities should be made superior to that of talents.

I find virtue to be found amongst the farmers of the country alone, not about courts, where courtiers dwell.

Thomas Paine needs no monument made with hands; he has erected a monument in the hearts of all lovers of liberty.

My political enemies I can freely forgive; but as for who abused me when I was serving my country in the field, and those who attacked me for serving my country -- Doctor, that is a different case.

The individual who refuses to defend his rights when called by his government deserves to be a slave, and must be punished as an enemy of his country and a friend to her foe

We must regain Texas, peaceably if we can, forcibly if we must.

Were all the worshippers of the gold calf to memorialize me and request a restoration of the deposits I would cut my right hand from my body before I would do such an act. The gold calf may be worshipped by others but as for myself I serve the Lord.