2,194 Quotes by Thomas Jefferson

Let the farmer forevermore be honored in his calling; for they who labor in the earth are the chosen people of God.

Every man wishes to pursue his occupation and to enjoy the fruits of his labours and the produce of his property in peace and safety, and with the least possible expense. When these things are accomplished, all the objects for which government ought to be established are answered.

The steady character of our countrymen is a rock to which we may safely moor; and notwithstanding the efforts of the papers to disseminate early discontents, I expect that a just, dispassionate and steady conduct, will at length rally to a proper system the great body of our country. Unequivocal in principle, reasonable in manner, we shall be able I hope to do a great deal of good to the cause of freedom & harmony.

I was much an enemy to monarchies before I came to Europe. I am ten thousand times more so, since I have seen what they are. There is scarcely an evil known in these countries, which may not be traced to their king, as its source, nor a good, which is not derived from the small fibres of republicanism existing among them.

I cannot live without books: but fewer will suffice where amusement, and not use, is the only future object.

I prefer the tumult of liberty to the quiet of servitude

The plough is to the farmer what the wand is to the sorcerer. Its effect is really like sorcery.

Say nothing of my religion. It is known to God and myself alone.

From breakfast, or noon at the latest, to dinner, I am mostly on horseback, Attending to My Farm or other concerns, which I find healthful to my body, mind, and affairs.