In every country where man is free to think & to speak, differences of opinion will arise from difference of perception, & the imperfection of reason. but these differences, when permitted, as in this happy country, to purify themselves by free discussion, are but as passing clouds overshadowing our land transiently, & leaving our horizon more bright & serene. that love of order & obedience to the laws, which so considerably characterizes the citizens of the United States, are sure pledges of internal tranquility, and the elective franchise, if guarded as the ark of our safety, will peaceably dissipate all combinations to subvert a constitution dictated by the wisdom, & resting on the will of the people. that will is the only legitimate foundation of any government, and to protect it’s free expression should be our first object.
Thomas Jefferson, from "Thomas Jefferson to Columbia, South Carolina, Citizens, Washington Mar. 23. 1801"
Thomas Jefferson statue removed from New York City Hall after 187 years. pic.twitter.com/KAZUeIxYq9
— Historic Vids (@historyinmemes) January 26, 2024
I tolerate with the utmost latitude the right of others to differ from me in opinion without imputing to them criminality. Both of our political parties, at least the honest portion of them, agree conscientiously in the same object—the public good; but they differ essentially in what they deem the means of promoting that good.
Thomas Jefferson, from a letter to Abigail Smith Adams, 1804
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