A people cannot long retain their freedom, whose government is incapable of protecting them.
Oliver EllsworthRead
A government capable of controlling the whole, and bringing its force to a point, is one of the prerequisites for national liberty. We combine in society, with an expectation to have our persons and properties defended against unreasonable exactions either at home or abroad.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A strong government is essential for ensuring the liberty of its citizens by protecting them from external and internal threats.
In this quote, Oliver Ellsworth emphasizes the importance of a structured and capable government in safeguarding the freedoms of individuals. He argues that for true national liberty to exist, citizens must unite under a governing body that can effectively maintain order and defend their rights against unjust demands, whether from the state itself or external forces. This concept underscores the delicate balance between authority and freedom in a society.
Themes
GovernmentLibertySocietyProtectionNational
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a debate about the role of government in protecting civil liberties.
More from Oliver Ellsworth
All quotes →Liberty is a word which, according as it is used, comprehends the most good and the most evil of any in the world. Justly understood it is sacred next to those which we appropriate in divine adoration; but in the mouths of some it means anything, which enervate a necessary government; excite a jealousy of the rulers who are our own choice, and keep society in confusion for want of a power sufficiently concentered to promote good.
Oliver EllsworthRead
Liberty is a word which, according as it is used, comprehends the most good and the most evil of any in the world.
Oliver EllsworthRead
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