I know [patriotism] exists, and I know it has done much in the present contest. But a great and lasting read more

I know [patriotism] exists, and I know it has done much in the present contest. But a great and lasting war can never be supported on this principle alone. It must be aided by a prospect of interest, or some reward.

America was targeted for attack because we are the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world, and no read more

America was targeted for attack because we are the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world, and no one will keep that light from shining.

We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose read more

We ought not to look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dear-bought experience.

True friendship is a plant of slow grow, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is read more

True friendship is a plant of slow grow, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation.

On April 30, 1789, George Washington, standing on the balcony of Federal Hall on Wall Street in New York, took read more

On April 30, 1789, George Washington, standing on the balcony of Federal Hall on Wall Street in New York, took his oath of office as the first President of the United States. Of this he wrote to James Madison: As the first of every thing, in our situation will serve to establish a Precedent, it is devoutly wished on my part, that these precedents may be fixed on true principles.

If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the read more

If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.

I go to the chair of government with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the read more

I go to the chair of government with feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution.

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable, procures success to the weak, and esteem to read more

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable, procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.

When it was reported to General Washington that the army was frequently indulging in swearing, he immediately sent out the read more

When it was reported to General Washington that the army was frequently indulging in swearing, he immediately sent out the following order: The general is sorry to be informed that the foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing — a vice little known heretofore in the American army — is growing into fashion. Let the men and officers reflect 'that we can not hope for the blessing of heaven on our army if we insult it by our impiety and folly.'