It is important to strengthen the State governments; and as this cannot be done by any change in the Federal Constitution (for the preservation of that is all we need contend for), it must be done by the States themselves, erecting such barriers at the constitutional line as cannot be surmounted either by themselves or by the General Government. The only barrier in their power is a wise government. A weak one will lose ground in every contest.
Thomas JeffersonI never before knew the full value of trees....What would I not give that the trees planted nearest round the house at Monticello were full grown.
Thomas JeffersonNo knowledge can be more satisfactory to a man than that of his own frame, its parts, their functions and actions.
Thomas JeffersonI can never join Calvin in addressing his god. He was indeed an Atheist, which I can never be; or rather his religion was Daemonism. If ever man worshipped a false god, he did.
Thomas Jefferson