Despotism can only exist in darkness.

What is here a right towards men, is a duty towards the Creator.

The problem to be solved is, not what form of government is perfect, but which of the forms is least imperfect.

A zeal for different opinions concerning religion...[has] divided mankind into parties, inflamed them with mutual animosity, and rendered them much more disposed to vex and oppress each other than to co-operate for their common good.

Torrents of blood have been spilt in the world in vain attempts of the secular arm to extinguish religious discord, by proscribing all differences in religious opinions.

The happy Union of these States is a wonder; their Constitution a miracle; their example the hope of Liberty throughout the world.

The right of freely examining public characters and measures, and of free communication among the people thereon . . . has ever been justly deemed the only effectual guardian of every other right.