The introduction of so powerful an agent as steam [to a carriage on wheels] will make a great change in the situation of man.

Our cause is just. Our union is perfect. ... With hearts fortified ... we most solemnly, before God and the world, declare that... we will, in defiance of every hazard, with unabating firmness and perseverence, employ for the preservation of our liberties; being with one mind resolved to die freemen rather than to live slaves.

I have learned to be less confident in the conclusions of human reason, and give more credit to the honesty of contrary opinions.

Religious leaders will always avail themselves of public ignorance for their own purpose.

Never yet could I find that a black had uttered a thought above the level of plain narration; never saw even an elemental trait of painting or sculpture.

Reason and free inquiry are the only effectual agents against error.

I am... for freedom of the press, and against all violations of the Constitution to silence by force and not by reason the complaints or criticisms, just or unjust, of our citizens against the conduct of their agents.