Quotes about Thomas Jefferson

Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of people that these liberties are the gift of God?

No nation has ever yet existed or been governed without religion. Nor can be. The Christian religion is the best religion that has been given to man and I as chief Magistrate of this nation am bound to give it the sanction of my example. Good morning Sir. [Replying on his way to church one Sunday to a friend, who said to him "You going to church Mr. J. You do not believe a word in it."]

If the obstacles of bigotry and priestcraft can be surmounted, we may hope that common sense will suffice to do everything else.

It is my disposition to maintain peace until its condition shall be made less tolerable than that of war itself.

I value peace, and I should unwillingly see any event take place which would render war a necessary resource.

No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever.

Difference of opinion is advantageous in religion. The several sects perform the office of a Censor - over each other.

Under the Constitution, our government follows the model set out by Thomas Jefferson: "A wise and frugal government, which shall restrain men from injuring one another, shall leave them otherwise free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned.

Error indeed has often prevailed by the assistance of power or force. Truth is the proper and sufficient antagonist to error.

The tolling of yon dismal bell and the loud but solemn discharge of artillery hath announced to the nation the melancholy tidings - Thomas Jefferson no longer lives!

The God who gave us life gave us liberty. Can the liberties of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?

the qualifications for self-government in society are not innate. they are the result of habit and long training.