James Madison

Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the read more

Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe there are more instances of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations.

Liberty and order will never be perfectly safe, until a trespass on the constitutional provisions for either, shall be felt read more

Liberty and order will never be perfectly safe, until a trespass on the constitutional provisions for either, shall be felt with the same keenness that resents an invasion of the dearest rights.

A good government implies two things: fidelity to the object of government, which is the happiness of the people; secondly, read more

A good government implies two things: fidelity to the object of government, which is the happiness of the people; secondly, a knowledge of the means by which that object can be best attained

The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable read more

The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse.

What prudent merchant will hazard his fortunes in any new branch of commerce when he knows not that his plans read more

What prudent merchant will hazard his fortunes in any new branch of commerce when he knows not that his plans may be rendered unlawful before they can be executed?