I have ever deemed it fundamental for the United States never to take active part in the quarrels of Europe.... They are nations of eternal war.

In reviewing the history of the times through which we have passed, no portion of it gives greater satisfaction or reflection, than that which represents the efforts of the friends of religious freedom and the success with which they are crowned.

The clergy ... believe that any portion of power confided to me [as President] will be exerted in opposition to their schemes. And they believe rightly: for I have sworn upon the altar of God, eternal hostility against every form of tyranny over the mind of man. But this is all they have to fear from me: and enough, too, in their opinion.

I pledge undying hostility to any government restrictions on the free minds of the people.

If we cannot secure all our rights, let us secure what we can.

He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

Experience has taught me that manufacturers are now as necessary to our independence as to our comfort.