National honor is national property of the highest value.

Peace is the best time for improvement and preparation of every kind; it is in peace that our commerce flourishes most, that taxes are most easily paid, and that the revenue is most productive.

History has shown that at least one-half of every century is consumed in war.

[In a republic,] it is not the people themselves who make the decisions, but the people they themselves choose to stand in their places.

In a representative republic, the education of our children must be of the utmost importance!

The citizens of the United States cherish sentiments the most friendly in favor of liberty and happiness...beyond the Atlantic. In the wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy to do so. It is only when our rights are invaded or seriously menaced that we resent injuries.

The best form of government is that which is most likely to prevent the greatest sum of evil.