My aim has been... to keep the United States... independent of all and under the influence of none.

Happiness is more effectually dispensed to mankind under a republican form of government than any other.

All I am I owe to my mother.

Went to church and fasted all day.

I have no other view than to promote the public good, and am unambitious of honors not founded in the approbation of my Country.

My first wish is, to see this plague of mankind banished from the earth, and the sons and daughters of this world employed in more pleasing and innocent amusements, than in preparing implements, and exercising them, for the destruction of mankind.

It is our policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world.