Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee.
George WashingtonRead
If, in the opinion of the people, the distribution or modification of the constitutional powers be in any particular wrong, let it be corrected by an amendment in the way which the Constitution designates. But let there be no change by usurpation; for though this, in one instance, may be the instrument of good, it is the customary weapon by which free governments are destroyed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Change in government should follow constitutional processes rather than forceful measures.
George Washington emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional principles and processes when considering changes to governmental powers. He warns against usurpation, suggesting that while it might lead to temporary good, it ultimately undermines the foundation of free governments.
Themes
ConstitutionGovernanceUsurpationAmendmentFreedom
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about constitutional rights during a political debate.
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