The principles and passions of men are always the same and lead to the same result, varying only according to the circumstances in which they are placed.

It is the knowledge that all men have weaknesses and that many have vices that makes government necessary.

It was by one Union that we achieved our independence and liberties, and by it alone can they be maintained.

The right of self defense never ceases. It is among the most sacred, and alike necessary to nations and to individuals, and whether the attack be made by Spain herself or by those who abuse her power, its obligation is not the less strong.

A king without power is an absurdity.

In wars of the European powers in matters relating to themselves we have never taken any part, nor does it comport with our policy so to do.

By the last returns to the Department of War the militia force of the several States may be estimated at 800,000 men – infantry, artillery, and cavalry.

Our country may be likened to a new house. We lack many things, but we possess the most precious of all – liberty!

It is only when the people become ignorant and corrupt, when they degenerate into a populace, that they are incapable of exercising their sovereignty.

How prone all human institutions have been to decay; how subject the best-formed and most wisely organized governments have been to lose their check and totally dissolve; how difficult it has been for mankind, in all ages and countries, to preserve their dearest rights and best privileges, impelled as it were by an irresistible fate of despotism.