With all the defects in our Constitution, whether general or particular, the comparison of our government with those of Europe, is like a comparison of Heaven with Hell. England, like the earth, may be allowed to take the intermediate station.

The way to have good and safe government is not to trust it all to one, but to divide it among the many, distributing to everyone exactly the functions in which he is competent ... It is by dividing and subdividing these Republics from the great national one down through all its subordinations until it ends in the administration of everyman's farm by himself, by placing under everyone what his own eye may superintend, that all will be done for the best.

I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just; that his justice cannot sleep forever.

Every man is under the natural duty of contributing to the necessities of the society; and this is all the laws should enforce on him.

Peace with all nations, and the right which that gives us with respect to all nations, are our object.

Religion, morality, and knowledge are necessary for good government... Therefore schools and the means of educating the people should always be encouraged.

There is not a truth existing which I fear... or would wish unknown to the whole world.