Thomas Jefferson, one of America’s founding fathers, was not only a statesman, diplomat, and the third President of the United States but also a prolific writer and thinker. His words have left an indelible mark on the course of history, resonating with people from all walks of life. In this article, we will explore 39 spectacular Thomas Jefferson quotes that encompass his wisdom, dedication to liberty, and enduring legacy.
- “I hold it that a little rebellion now and then is a good thing.”
- “In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
- “I cannot live without books.”
- “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.”
- “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.”
- “When angry, count to ten before you speak; if very angry, count to a hundred.”
- “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.”
- “We in America do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.”
- “The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do.”
- “Every generation needs a new revolution.”
- “Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because if there be one, he must more approve the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded fear.”
- “I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it.”
- “The will of the people is the only legitimate foundation of any government.”
- “The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions that I wish it to be always kept alive.”
- “Educate and inform the whole mass of the people… They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty.”
Thomas Jefferson’s quotes reflect his commitment to individual liberty, democracy, and the pursuit of knowledge. They provide insights into his thoughts on government, freedom, and the responsibilities of citizens. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern world, Jefferson’s words remain a source of inspiration and guidance.
- “I hope our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us that the less we use our power, the greater it will be.”
- “Timid men prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty.”
- “My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government.”
- “The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.”
- “No government ought to be without censors, and where the press is free, no one ever will.”
- “In war, they will kill some of us; we shall destroy all of them.”
- “I am a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it.”
- “I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.”
- “Commerce with all nations, alliance with none, should be our motto.”
- “An educated citizenry is a vital requisite for our survival as a free people.”
- “He who knows best knows how little he knows.”
- “I believe that every human mind feels pleasure in doing good to another.”
- “I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.”
- “The glow of one warm thought is to me worth more than money.”
- “Ignorance is preferable to error, and he is less remote from the truth who believes nothing than he who believes what is wrong.”
Jefferson’s words remind us of the importance of individual liberty, the pursuit of knowledge, and the responsibilities of citizenship. They continue to inspire and guide us as we navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world.
- “Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none.”
- “The only security of all is in a free press.”
- “The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others.”
- “The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time.”
- “Experience hath shown, that even under the best forms of government those entrusted with power have, in time, and by slow operations, perverted it into tyranny.”
- “When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe.”
- “No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, and no culture comparable to that of the garden.”
- “I’m a greater believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it.”
- “We confide in our strength without boasting of it; we respect that of others without fearing it.”
These 39 spectacular Thomas Jefferson quotes encapsulate his enduring legacy as a champion of liberty, democracy, and individual rights. His words continue to inspire and challenge us to uphold the principles upon which the United States was founded. In an ever-changing world, Jefferson’s wisdom remains a beacon of guidance and a reminder of the values that have shaped our nation.
