Quotes Library

July 4, 2025

A little rebellion now and then is a good thing.

Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826), American Democratic-Republican politician, president, letter to James Madison, 30 January 1787, Jay p.191

In respect of what current issue would a little rebellion do some good?

It is unfortunate, but understandable that every government of men or women will sooner or later overstep its brief. The threat of rebellion (or just a lot of noisy demonstrations) in response is what keeps governments in line, and if fear of that is not sufficient, there is always the courts. But that depends on the jurisdiction.


More Quotes

April 4, 2025
To criticize one’s country is to do it a service…Criticism, in short, is more than a right
June 7, 2025
If the essential rights of sovereignty…be taken away, the Commonwealth is thereby dissolved
March 6, 2025
Democracy is rarely beautiful in its workings, for the many refuse to be refined, restrained, and artistic.
Page 32 of 63