Every word of [the Constitution] decides a question between power and liberty.

[Christianity] existed and flourishes, not only without the support of human laws, but in spite of every opposition from them.

The smaller the society, the fewer probably will be the distinct parties and interests composing it; the fewer the distinct parties and interests, the more frequently will a majority be found of the same party; . . . the more easily will they concert and execute their plans of oppression.

The purpose of the Constitution is to restrict the majority's ability to harm a minority.

The people shall not be deprived or abridged of their right to speak, or to publish their sentiments; and the freedom of the press, as one of the great bulwarks of liberty, shall be inviolable.

In contemplating the pecuniary resources needed for the removal of such a number to so great a distance [freed slaves to Africa], my thoughts and hopes have long been turned to the rich fund presented in the western lands of the nation . . .

The truth was that all men having power ought to be distrusted to a certain degree.