In a republic the first rule for the guidance of the citizen is obedience of the law.

They [the Founding Fathers] were intent upon establishing a Christian commonwealth in accordance with the principle of self-government. They were an inspired body of men. It has been said that God sifted the nations that He might send choice grain into the wilderness ... Who can fail to see it in the hand of Destiny? Who can doubt that it has been guided by a Divine Providence?

We cannot permit any inquisition either within or without the law or apply any religious test to the holding of office. The mind of America must be forever free.

The government of the United States is a device for maintaining in perpetuity the rights of the people, with the ultimate extinction of all privileged classes.

Work is not a curse; it is the prerogative of intelligence, the only means to manhood, and the measure of civilization.

No nation ever had an army large enough to guarantee it against attack in time of peace, or ensure it of victory in time of war.

If all men are created equal, that is final. If they are endowed with inalienable rights, that is final. If governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed, that is final. No advance, no progress can be made beyond these propositions.