John Adams

"Nip the shoots of arbitrary power in the bud, is the only maxim which can preserve the liberties of the people."

"A man may be as much a fool from the want of sensibility as the want of sense."

"The law, in all vicissitudes of government, alterations of power, or changes of dynasty, remains constant."

"You're not to be so blind with patriotism that you can't face reality. Wrong is wrong, no matter who does it or who says it."

"The human heart is the most noble object in creation."

"Despotism can only exist in darkness, and there is no enemy of darkness so powerful as the sun."

"Facts are stubborn things in our universe; wish as we may, we cannot alter them."

"The sweetest music to my ear would be the voice of my friend."

"Every action is animated by some principle, whether good or bad."

"Moderation in all things is the golden mean."

"The source of all our suffering and all our happiness is within ourselves."

"The foundation of national policy must be laid in the principles of private morality."

"There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man."

"The envy and hatred which the rich and powerful always regard those who rise suddenly is remarkable."

"Mistakes will be made; they are inevitable; the important thing is to learn from them."

"A mind always employed is always happy."

"The true test of civilization is not the census, nor the size of cities, but the kind of man the country turns out."

"To be consistent in supporting the Constitution, we must not tolerate either anarchy or tyranny."

"Tyranny can only be resisted by those with adequate knowledge of their rights."

"In the government of the Commonwealth I shall endeavor to serve my country with the same zeal and faithfulness."

"The character of man depends on the circumstances in which he is placed."

"I have come to a fixed resolution to obtain the summit of my profession or to die in the attempt."

"There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide."

"Fear is the foundation of most governments."

"The same principles that were supposed to have created a monarchy created a democracy."

"Wisdom is the knowledge of things divine and human."

"The true object of the Revolution was the Declaration and the Constitution."

"A government of laws and not of men can only be established by a virtuous people."

"It should be your care, therefore, and mine, to elevate the minds of our children and exalt their courage."

"The way to secure peace is to be prepared for war."