The constitution of the United States is to receive a reasonable interpretation of its language, and its powers, keeping in view the objects and purposes, for which those powers were conferred. By a reasonable interpretation, we mean, that in case the words are susceptible of two different senses, the one strict, the other more enlarged, that should be adopted, which is most consonant with the apparent objects and intent of the Constitution.

One of the ordinary modes, by which tyrants accomplish their purposes without resistance, is, by disarming the people, and making it an offense to keep arms.

The real object of the First Amendment was not to countenance, much less advance Mohammedanism, or Judaism or infidelity, by prostrating Christianity; but ... to prevent any national ecclesiastical establishment which should give to a hierarchy the exclusive patronage of the national government.

If the Constitution is a compact, then the States have a right to secede.

How easily men satisfy themselves that the Constitution is exactly what they wish it to be

It should therefore be difficult in a republic to declare war; but not to make peace.

Human wisdom is the aggregate of all human experience, constantly accumulating, and selecting, and re-organizing its own materials.