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The constitutions of most of our States assert, that all power is inherent in the people; that they may exercise it by themselves, in all cases to which they think themselves competent, or they may act by representatives, freely and equally chosen; that it is their right and duty to be at all times armed; that they are entitled to freedom of person, freedom of religion, freedom of property, and freedom of the press.
Thomas Jefferson
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the principle that power resides within the people and outlines their rights and responsibilities in governance.

Thomas Jefferson's quote articulates a foundational belief in democratic governance, asserting that legitimate power originates from the people. It highlights the rights of individuals to self-govern, to choose their representatives, and to maintain freedoms that are essential to a democratic society, such as personal freedom, religious freedom, property rights, and freedom of the press. The statement serves as a reminder that a well-functioning government is accountable to its citizens, who have both rights and responsibilities in safeguarding their liberties.

Themes

DemocracyFreedomPowerRightsGovernment

In practice

Example use cases

In a public speech advocating for citizens' rights during a town hall meeting.

More from Thomas Jefferson

The firmness with which the (American) people have withstood the... abuses of the press, the discernment they have manifested between truth and falsehood, show that they may safely be trusted to hear everything true and false and to form a correct judgment between them.
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I, place economy among the first & most important republican virtues, & public debt as the greatest of the dangers to be feared
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‎We must make our choice between economy and liberty or confusion and servitude...If we run into such debts, we must be taxed in our meat and drink, in our necessities and comforts, in our labor and in our amusements...if we can prevent the government from wasting the labor of the people, under the pretense of caring for them, they will be happy.
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Very many and very meritorious were the worthy patriots who assisted in bringing back our government to its republican tack. To preserve it in that, will require unremitting vigilance.
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A nation, as a society, forms a moral person, and every member of it is personally responsible for his society.
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Timid men prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty.
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