The Ignorance the people live in leads them to commit mistakes against their own happiness
Simon BolivarIs it conceivable that a newly emancipated people can soar to the heights of liberty, and, unlike Icarus, neither have its wings melt nor fall into an abyss? Such a marvel is inconceivable and without precedent. There is no reasonable probability to bolster our hopes.
Simon BolivarA state too expensive in itself, or by virtue of its dependencies, ultimately falls into decay.
Simon BolivarLet the entire system of government be strengthened, and let the balance of power be drawn up in such a manner that it will be permanent and incapable of decay because of its own tenuity.
Simon BolivarWhen mankind was in its infancy, steeped in uncertainty, ignorance, and error, was it possible to foresee what system it would adopt for preservation.
Simon BolivarIt is harder to maintain the balance of freedom than it is to endure the weight of tyranny.
Simon BolivarAmong the popular and representative systems of government I do not approve of the federal system: it is too perfect; and it requires virtues and political talents much superior to our own.
Simon BolivarThe continuation of authority has frequently proved the undoing of democratic governments. Repeated elections are essential to the system of popular governments, because there is nothing so dangerous as to suffer power to be vested for a long time in one citizen. The people become accustomed to obeying him, and he becomes accustomed to commanding, hence the origin of usurpation and tyranny.
Simon BolivarColombians! My last wish is for the happiness of the patria. If my death contributes to the end of partisanship and the consolidation of the union, I shall be lowered in peace into my grave.
Simon BolivarRepublican democracy is overperfect and demands political virtues and talents far superior to our own.
Simon BolivarThe United States appear to be destined by Providence to plague America with misery in the name of liberty.
Simon Bolivar