We have seen the mere distinction of color made in the most enlightened period of time, a ground of the most oppressive dominion ever exercised by man over man.

if the people are to be our governors, they must arm themselves with knowledge.

In proportion to the value of this revolution; in proportion to the importance of instruments, every word of which decides a question between power and liberty; in proportion to the solemnity of acts, proclaiming the will authenticated by the seal of the people, the only earthly source of authority, ought to be the vigilance with which they are guarded by every citizen in private life, and the circumspection with which they are executed by every citizen in public trust.

What a perversion of the normal order of things! ... to make power the primary and central object of the social system, and Liberty but its satellite.

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

The President is responsible to the public for the conduct of the person he has nominated and appointed.

Despotism can only exist in darkness.