Founding Fathers Quotes + Their Meanings/Explanations

"Founding Fathers Quotes" refers to the collection of wisdom, insights, and principles expressed by the individuals who played a pivotal role in the establishment of the United States of America. These quotes encapsulate the beliefs and ideals on which the nation was founded, serving as a guiding light for future generations.

From the likes of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and others, these quotes emphasize the importance of liberty, democracy, individual rights, and the pursuit of happiness. They offer profound perspectives on governance, human nature, and the responsibilities of citizens, making them a valuable resource for understanding the principles that shaped America's foundation and continue to influence its development.

Below are various founding fathers quotes with their meanings/explanations;

“Friendship is one of the distinguishing glories of man. . . . From this I expect to receive the chief happiness of my future life.” – John Adams

Friendship is important because it allows us to share our strengths and weaknesses with someone else, which can make us better people. It also allows us to build relationships that are valuable and lasting.

“It is a universal truth that the loss of liberty at home is to be charged to the provisions against danger, real or pretended, from abroad.” – James Madison

Americans enjoy many freedoms and liberties not enjoyed by citizens in other countries, these rights are constantly under threat from government officials who claim that they need greater power to protect us from "dangerous foreigners.

“In politics the middle way is none at all.” – John Adams

In politics, the middle way is often seen as a failed strategy. Political parties that try to appeal to both the left and the right are perceived as weak and ineffective. However, this does not have to be the case. A more moderate approach can be successful if it is tailored specifically to the needs of the electorate.

“Truth will ultimately prevail where pains are taken to bring it to light.” – George Washington

The process of exposing wrongs and bringing them to light can be difficult, but it is the only way for progress to be made. People must be willing to speak up and stand up for what is right, no matter the cost. If people are willing to stand up for what is right, then truth will eventually prevail.

“I have carefully examined the evidence of the Christian religion, and if I was sitting as a juror upon its authenticity, I would unhesitatingly give my verdict in its favor. I can prove its truth as clearly as any proposition ever submitted to the mind of man.” – Alexander Hamilton

There are many proofs that Christianity is true, such as the Bible being an accurate record of history, the existence of miracles, and the unconditional love of God demonstrated in Jesus Christ. Anyone who examines this evidence fully and honestly will come to the same conclusion.

“Well done is better than well said.” – Benjamin Franklin

Some people believe that saying something is well done is better than actually doing it. They think that if they just say the right things, then their actions will speak for themselves. Others believe that it is more important to actually do something than just say you have done it. They think that actions speak louder than words. In the end, both beliefs have their pros and cons. Saying something is better than doing it can make someone feel good about themselves.

“The representatives of the people, in a popular assembly, seem sometimes to fancy that they are the people themselves, and betray strong symptoms of impatience and disgust at the least sign of opposition from any other quarter; as if the exercise of its rights, by either the executive or judiciary, were a breach of their privilege and an outrage to their dignity.” – Alexander Hamilton

When representatives of the people gather in a popular assembly, they often seem to think they are the people themselves. This is evident by their impatience and disgust at any sign of opposition. However, this attitude can have negative consequences for the people, as representatives who imagine they are the people can make bad decisions on their behalf.

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

In order for a population to be sovereign, they must be able to govern themselves. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. When people become ignorant and corrupt, they are no longer able to make sound decisions. This results in a populace that is incapable of exercising their sovereignty. This is what happens when the people allow their government to become corrupt.

“Nothing can now be believed which is seen in a newspaper. truth itself becomes suspicious by being put into that polluted vehicle.” – Thomas Jefferson

It is commonly agreed that the news media has a negative effect on society. The spread of fake news and manipulation through propaganda has only made things worse. Newspapers are one of the main sources of information for many people, but now it seems that nothing can be trusted what is seen in a newspaper. Truth itself becomes suspicious by being put into that polluted vehicle. It is important for people to get their information from different sources to ensure they are getting accurate information.

“The rights of persons, and the rights of property, are the objects, for the protection of which Government was instituted.” – James Madison

The government was instituted to protect the rights of persons and the rights of property. These are the two main objects for the protection of which government was created. It is important to understand these rights so that we can have a good understanding of how government works and what its role is.

“In Republics, the great danger is, that the majority may not sufficiently respect the rights of the minority” – James Madison

This is especially a concern in times of crisis, when it may be easier for those in power to disregard minorities' rights in order to consolidate their position. The fear of persecution can also lead minorities to silence themselves or to support totalitarian regimes in order to ensure their safety.

“It is a common error in friends, when they would extol their friends, to make comparisons, and to depreciate the merits of others.” – Benjamin Franklin

Friendships are important, but should not be based on superficial qualities. When making comparisons between friends, it is important to remember that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. The best way to appreciate all of your friends is by simply getting to know them for who they are.

“Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” – George Washington

When most people think of liberty, they likely imagine a small, spindly plant standing alone in a sparse field. But in reality, liberty is a vigorous and fast-growing plant that can take hold in any environment. It is this resilience that has made it one of the most important and enduring symbols of freedom in human history.

“The way to secure peace is to be prepared for war. They that are on their guard, and appear ready to receive their adversaries, are in much less danger of being attacked, than the supine, secure, and negligent.” – Benjamin Franklin

The world is a dangerous place and it's never been more true than it is today. With so many different groups and individuals looking to cause chaos, it's important that we all take steps to protect ourselves. One of the best ways to do this is to be prepared for war. Being aware of your surroundings and being ready to act if necessary will help you stay safe and secure.

“Those who own the country ought to govern it.” – John Jay

Those who own the country ought to govern it. This is a quote often used in order to justify those in power. It suggests that those who have the resources and power should be in control of the country. The quote is often used as justification for why certain people are in charge, and it can be difficult to change this mindset.

“Some, to make themselves considerable, pursue learning; others grasp at wealth; some aim at being thought witty, and others are only careful to make the most of a handsome person; but what is wit, or wealth, or form, or learning, when compared with virtue? It is true we love the handsome, we applaud the learned, and we fear the rich and powerful, but we even worship and adore the virtuous.” – Benjamin Franklin

Few people would dispute that learning is a worthwhile pursuit. After all, it can open up new doors of opportunity and allow one to explore different fields of knowledge. On the other hand, wealth can also be a valuable asset, providing security and comfort in times of need. It can also help to provide a comfortable lifestyle for oneself and one's family. Finally, many people regard being thought witty as a valuable quality, one that can give them an edge in society.

“A well-instructed people alone can be permanently a free people.” – James Madison

The Founding Fathers of this country were well-instructed people. They knew how to read and write, and they were able to form a coherent plan for the new country. This knowledge was essential in order for the new country to be successful. Without access to education, a large percentage of the population would remain illiterate, and the government would be unable to function effectively. In addition, a well-educated populace is critical for promoting democracy.

“I think the first duty of society is justice.” – Alexander Hamilton

The first duty of society is justice. This means that society must ensure that all people are treated fairly and equitably. Society also has a responsibility to protect its citizens from harm, and to provide them with basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. These are just a few of the responsibilities that society has in ensuring justice for all.

“To be good, and to do good, is all we have to do.” – John Adams

The most important thing in life is to be good. We are all born with the potential to do good, but sometimes we don't have the opportunity or we don't know how to do it. But that doesn't mean we can't try. It's important to know what being good means, and to try and live up to that standard every day. Doing good isn't always easy, but it's worth it in the end.

“You may delay, but time will not.” – Benjamin Franklin

Time is undefeated. It marches on relentlessly, whether we like it or not. We may delay it, but time will still pass us by. The sooner we accept this, the better our lives will be.

“Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence - true friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation.” – George Washington

True friendship is a rare gem that takes time to grow. It must undergo the shocks of being tested and be able to withstand the ups and downs of relationships. Anyone can be friends with someone if they are courteous, but true friendship is a plant that needs time to germinate and grow. It is important to take your time in choosing whom you will share your confidence with, because a bad choice could ruin a good friendship.

“Republics demanded virtue. Monarchies could rely on coercion and “dazzling splendor” to suppress self-interest or factions; republics relied on the goodness of the people to put aside private interest for the public good. The imperatives of virtue attached all sorts of desiderata to the republican citizen: simplicity, frugality, sobriety, simple manners, Christian benevolence, and duty to the polity. Republics called on other virtues–spiritedness, courage–to protect the polity from external threats. Tyrants kept standing armies; republics relied on free yeomen, defending their own land.” – James Monroe

The idea that republics are more virtuous than monarchies is an antiquated one. Throughout history, republics have been known to rely on coercion and dazzling splendor to suppress self-interest or factions. Monarchies, on the other hand, could rely on coercion and dazzling splendor to suppress self-interest or factions; however, these methods were not always successful.

“The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.” – John Adams

Affliction can produce refinement in both individuals and states. It can cause people to become more aware of their feelings and what is going on around them. In turn, this can lead to a deeper understanding of themselves and others. It can also lead to increased empathy and compassion, which are two essential ingredients for effective political action.

“Because power corrupts, society’s demands for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases.” – John Adams

As societies become more complex and bureaucratized, their demands for moral authority and character increase. In order to maintain order and meet the expectations of the public, institutions such as churches, schools, and governments increasingly demand that their leaders be moral exemplars who embody good character. This has led to a rise in the importance of moral character in positions of authority.

“A fat kitchen makes a lean will.” – Benjamin Franklin

The quote is often used to motivate people to cook their food properly and not let it get out of control.

“As long as the reason of man continues fallible, and he is at liberty to exercise it, different opinions will be formed.” – James Madison

Human beings are creatures of habit. We like things the way we're used to them and we dislike change. That's why it can be so difficult for us to let go of something that we've invested a lot of time and energy in. But sometimes change is necessary in order to grow and evolve as a person. And that's what makes opinions so important. They help us make decisions by giving us a perspective on the world that we may not have otherwise had.

“Love is a mighty pretty thing; but like all other delicious things, it is cloying; and when the first transports of the passion begins to subside, which it assuredly will do, and yield, oftentimes too late, to more sober reflections, it serves to evince, that love is too dainty a food to live upon alone, and ought not to be considered farther than as a necessary ingredient for that matrimonial happiness which results from a combination of causes.” – George Washington

Love is a mighty pretty thing. It can brighten up a person's day and make them feel happy. However, like all other delicious things, love can be cloying; and when the first transports of the passion begin to subside, which it assuredly will do, there is often a sense of loss.

“I read my eyes out and can’t read half enough either. The more one reads the more one sees we have to read.” – John Adams

Reading is one of the most important activities a person can engage in. It helps us learn, think critically, and escape from our reality. But as we read more, the more we see that we have to read. The world is filled with information that we need to know in order to be successful, but it's difficult to find the time to read everything. We're constantly overloaded with stimuli and it's difficult to focus on anything.

“Bigotry is the disease of ignorance, of morbid minds; enthusiasm of the free and buoyant. education & free discussion are the antidotes of both.” – Thomas Jefferson

Bigotry is a disease of ignorance. It is the result of a morbid mind that is consumed by hate and resentment. Bigots are not interested in learning or understanding others, because they are only interested in upholding their own opinions and beliefs at any cost. The only way to overcome bigotry is through education and free discussion. These two things open people's minds and allow them to see the world from other perspectives.

“Human passions unbridled by morality and religion . . . would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net.” – John Adams

Some people argue that the strong passions humans have—such as hunger, thirst, love, and hate—are what make us unique and special. These passions, they say, are what keep us going when times get tough, and without them society would simply break down. Others believe that the strong passions human beings have can be a dangerous thing. They say that without morality and religion to restrain our behavior, we would be nothing more than animals who only care about ourselves.

“The emigrants although of different parties and different religious sects all flew from persecution in pursuit of liberty.” – James Monroe

They left everything behind to start new lives in a land where they could be themselves without fear of being persecuted or killed. Despite their differences, these immigrants were united by their common goal of escaping their persecution.

“It is far better to be alone, than to be in bad company.” – George Washington

Bad company can be very harmful to one's mental and physical health. It is far better to be alone than to be in bad company. People who are in bad company tend to do things that they would not do if they were by themselves. They are more likely to get into fights, and they are also more likely to become addicted to drugs or alcohol.

“A government of laws, and not of men.” – John Adams

Since its inception, the United States of America has been a country founded on the idea of democracy. This system, which is based on the rule of law, is supposed to be governed by the people, not by one man. However, over time, this ideal has become less and less true. The government today is more like a government of men than a government of laws.

“I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is the best policy.” – George Washington

Public officials and private citizens alike should adhere to the maxim "honesty is the best policy." This is because it is the most truthful thing to do, and it will lead to fewer conflicts and better relationships. Honesty also helps people understand each other better and avoids misunderstandings.

“Having lived long, I have experienced many instances of being obliged by better information or fuller consideration to change opinions, even on important subjects, which I once thought right, but found to be otherwise.” – Benjamin Franklin

This quote by Benjamin Franklin is a reflection of the way that he has always been willing to accept new information and change his views on important matters. This is especially true when it comes to his understanding of politics and the world around him.

“The Constitution preserves the advantage of being armed which Americans possess over the people of almost every other nation where the governments are afraid to trust the people with arms.” – James Madison

Americans have an inherent advantage in being able to defend themselves and their property with firearms. This advantage is preserved by the Constitution, which enshrines the right of Americans to bear arms. The Constitution also protects Americans from overly oppressive government regulation of firearms.

“Those who stand for nothing fall for anything.” – Alexander Hamilton

Standing up for what you believe in is a noble thing to do, but it can also be risky. It can mean risking everything, including your safety and reputation. That's why those who stand for nothing often end up falling for anything. They're willing to do anything, even if it means compromising their values, in order to get what they want.

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

The United States of America is a land of opportunity and freedom, where anyone can achieve anything if they work hard enough. The country has come a long way since its inception, and there is no limit to what it can achieve in the future.

“The liberty, prosperity, and happiness of our country will always be the object of my most fervent prayers to the Supreme Author of All Good.” – James Monroe

The Founding Fathers of America knew that the prosperity and happiness of their country was the ultimate goal. This is why they fought so hard to create a society where people could live free and prosper. Our country has continued to uphold these values, and we are now one of the most prosperous nations in the world. I am grateful for this, and I will continue to pray for our nation's future.

“Experience is the oracle of truth; and where its responses are unequivocal, they ought to be conclusive and sacred” – James Madison

The saying that experience is the oracle of truth has been used to justify a variety of positions, but it is an indisputable fact that our experiences can provide us with information that is accurate and conclusive. This makes them worthy of being treated as sacred sources of knowledge, and we should always heed the advice they provide.

“Of the liberty of conscience in matters of religious faith, of speech and of the press; of the trial by jury of the vicinage in civil and criminal cases; of the benefit of the writ of habeas corpus; of the right to keep and bear arms… If these rights are well defined and secured against encroachment, it is impossible that government should ever degenerate into tyranny.” – James Monroe

As the United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land, it guarantees the citizens of this country certain fundamental rights. One of these rights is the freedom of conscience, which means that people are free to believe in whatever religion they choose, and to express those beliefs freely. Freedom of speech also exists in the United States, and people are free to speak their minds without fear of punishment from the government.

“Our obligations to our country never cease but with our lives. We ought to do all we can.” – John Adams

There is never a time when we should not be patriotic. We owe it to our country, and to the people who have fought and died for it, to always be on the lookout for ways we can help. It's important that we remember our obligations to our country at all times, especially when tragedies occur. We should do all we can to help out during natural disasters, donate money or supplies to charities, and support military members and their families.

There is a price tag on human liberty. That price is the willingness to assume the responsibilities of being free men. Payment of this price is a personal matter with each of us.” – James Monroe

Liberty is not free. It is a price that must be paid for freedom. That price is the willingness to assume the responsibilities of being free men and women. This price can be difficult to pay, but it is worth it. Liberty is not a gift from on high; it is something that must be earned by each individual. The responsibility of upholding liberty rests on each individual's shoulders.

“Citizens by birth or choice, of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of ‘American’ which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism, more than any appellation derived from local discriminations.” – George Washington

The United States of America is a country made up of many different people with diverse backgrounds. Most of these people were born in the United States, but some have chosen to move here. Regardless of birthplace, all Americans share a national identity and have the same rights and responsibilities. It is natural for Americans to feel patriotic towards their country, and to concentrate their affections there.

“A promise must never be broken.” – Alexander Hamilton

In a society that is constantly changing, it is important for people to have promises that they can rely on. One of the most important promises in a person's life is the promise they make to themselves. Breaking a promise can lead to psychological distress, regret, and guilt. It can also damage relationships. Promises should never be broken because they can cause a lot of pain and hurt.

“Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people.” – John Adams

Liberty cannot be preserved without general knowledge among the people. This is why we must promote education and ensure that everyone has access to quality information. We can do this by funding educational institutions and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to learn.

“A pure democracy is a society consisting of a small number of citizens, who assemble and administer the government in person.” – James Madison

It is the most popular form of government, and has been practiced in many countries since the beginning of recorded history. However, there are some serious drawbacks to this system. First, it is difficult to ensure that all citizens have an equal say in how their country is run. Second, pure democracies are often unstable and susceptible to corruption.

“Fear is the foundation of most governments.” – John Adams

Fear is what keeps people in line and prevents them from rebelling against the establishment. Governments use fear to manipulate their citizens and keep them under control. They use propaganda to create a sense of insecurity in the population, which leads to more compliance. The government then uses this fear to its advantage, dictating what people can and cannot do.

“If conscience disapproves, the loudest applauses of the world are of little value.” – John Adams

Conscience is a voice that can only be silenced by death. It is a voice that will not be silenced by anything short of extermination. For some, it's a voice that terrifies them, for others it's a source of guidance and strength. But no matter what people say about its power, conscience is still the only thing standing between us and complete annihilation.

“Safety from external danger is the most powerful director of national conduct. Even the ardent love of liberty will, after a time, give way to its dictates. The violent destruction of life and property incident to war, the continual effort and alarm attendant on a state of continual danger will compel nations the most attached to liberty to resort for repose and security to institutions that have a tendency to destroy their civil and political rights. To be safer, they at length become willing to run the risk of being less free.” – Alexander Hamilton

Internal dangers, within the limits of civil society, must be guarded against by laws and institutions. But there is no substitute for public safety as a motive for private virtue. That is why the preservation of life and property, and the defense of our coasts and borders, form the most powerful director of national conduct.

“No nation could preserve its freedom in the midst of continual warfare.” – James Madison

Warfare requires a continuous flow of resources to support the troops, which eventually depletes the resources of the nation. This leaves the nation vulnerable to outside forces and unable to defend itself. Additionally, constant warfare creates social and economic instability, which can lead to dictatorships or other forms of government. In short, warfare is incompatible with preserving a free society.

“Let frugality and industry be our virtues. Fire (our children) with ambition to be useful.” – John Adams

Frugality and industry are two virtues that should be burned into our children's minds at an early age. These qualities will give them the tools they need to succeed in life. They will learn that success does not come easy, and that they must work hard to get what they want. Our children should not only be frugal and industrious, but also have a burning ambition to be useful.

“The truth is that all men having power ought to be mistrusted.” – James Madison

In a world where power is often abused and misused, it is important to keep in mind that all men with power ought to be mistrusted. This is especially true when it comes to those in positions of authority, as they often have the ability to do great harm. Unfortunately, this is something that seems to be increasingly happening in our society today.

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

The essence of government is power. This is something that cannot be denied, no matter how much some people may want to. And because power is always liable to abuse, it is something that should be carefully guarded and used for the benefit of the people as a whole. In order to do this, governments must have a strong and stable foundation. This means that they must be able to maintain their authority over the people and their resources.

“Each year one vicious habit rooted out, in time might make the worst man good throughout.” – Benjamin Franklin

The elimination of bad behaviors can pave the way for a more productive life, and with that comes a sense of self-confidence and inner peace.

“My first wish is to see this plague of mankind, war, banished from the earth.” – George Washington

The plague of mankind, war, needs to be banished from the earth. War has always been an ugly reality in human history and it is only getting worse. The plague of mankind has caused so much destruction, pain, and suffering that it's time we eradicate it once and for all. We need to find a way to get along with each other and stop fighting.

“I agree with you that it is the duty of every good citizen to use all the opportunities, which occur to him, for preserving documents relating to the history of our country.” – Thomas Jefferson

The importance of doing so cannot be overstated, as a lack of documentation can lead to a loss of knowledge and understanding about our past. There are many ways in which citizens can document and preserve history, and it is important that everyone takes advantage of these opportunities.

“Public business, my son, must always be done by somebody. It will be done by somebody or another. If wise men decline it, others will not; if honest men refuse it, others will not.” – John Adams

Public business is always something that somebody must do. Whether it's a wise man declining the opportunity or an honest man refusing it, somebody will have to take on the responsibility. It's up to those who are willing to do the job and be responsible for the outcome. If someone is unwilling to take on this responsibility, others will not step up and fill the void.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal. . . .” – Thomas Jefferson

This statement is the basis of the American ideal of democracy. It asserts that all people are created equal and deserve the same rights. The document also guarantees religious freedom, due process, and a fair trial.

“The important consequences to the American States from this Declaration of Independence, considered as the ground and foundation of a future government, naturally suggest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a manner as that the people may be universally informed of it.” – John Hancock

The Declaration of Independence is one of the most important documents in American history. It is the ground and foundation of a future government. The important consequences to the American States from this declaration naturally suggest the propriety of proclaiming it.

“Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost.” – Thomas Jefferson

A free and vibrant press is an essential part of a healthy democracy. In the United States, that freedom is enshrined in the First Amendment to the Constitution. Without a free and open press, our liberty would be severely limited. The ability of journalists to report on matters of public interest without fear of retribution is crucial to the maintenance of a free society. That's why it's so alarming when governments try to limit the freedom of the press.

“In the main, it will be found that a power over a man’s support (salary) is a power over his will.” – Alexander Hamilton

In the world of work, a power over a man's salary is a power over his will. This is especially true in the case of professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers who rely on their salaries to support themselves and their families. The fact that a person's income plays such a significant role in their life is something that most of us take for granted, but it's actually a relatively recent development.

“When one side only of a story is heard and often repeated, the human mind becomes impressed with it insensibly.” – George Washington

A story is more than just words on a page. It's an experience that the reader has in their mind. And just like any other experience, it can be valuable or harmful depending on how it's presented. Imagine if only one side of a story were ever heard. Eventually, the mind would become impressed with that side and start to believe it without question.

“The love of power, like the love of money, increases with the possession of it; and we know in what ruin these baneful passions have involved human societies in all ages when they have been let loose and suffered to rage uncontrolled – There is no restraint like the pervading eye of the virtuous citizens.” – Samuel Adams

We all have a love of power, whether we admit it or not. It's something that many people crave, and it can be a very destructive force in the world. The love of power can lead to things like greed, jealousy, and violence, and it often ends up ruinous for society as a whole. The problem is that this love of power is often hard to resist, and it can be difficult to stop once it starts to take over.

“Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.” – John Adams

This is a fundamental principle of law and science. It is also a fundamental principle of human nature. Our desires, emotions, and opinions often influence how we interpret events, but they cannot change the underlying evidence. This is why experts rely on data and evidence when making decisions.

“The proposed Constitution is, in strictness, neither a national nor a federal constitution; but a composition of both.” – James Madison

The document calls for the establishment of a strong central government with exclusive jurisdiction over certain areas while also granting significant autonomy to states. In addition, the Constitution establishes a system of Checks and Balances to prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

“Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.” – John Adams

Liberty, once lost, is lost forever. That was the lesson that the Founding Fathers learned when they were forced to give up their freedom in order to gain it back. The American Revolution was a fight for independence from Great Britain and its King. The colonists wanted to be able to govern themselves without British interference.

“Old minds are like old horses; you must exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order.” John Adams

In order to keep your mind active and sharp, it is necessary to exercise it. The same can be said for old horses- you must make sure they get their exercise if they want to stay healthy and productive. In fact, doing something new and different every day may help prevent age-related cognitive decline.

“A learned blockhead is a greater blockhead than an ignorant one.” – Benjamin Franklin

There is something to be said for intelligence, but it's not the only tool that a person needs in the world. There are those who know without being taught, those who learn without being taught, and those who are taught but never learn. The man who knows and never learns is no better than the man who knows but can't do anything with it.

“I fear that in every elected office, members will obtain an influence by noise, not sense. By meanness, not greatness. By ignorance, not learning. By contracted hearts, not large souls . . . There must be decency and respect.” – John Adams

These qualities will lead to the downfall of our democracy because they are antithetical to the principles on which it was founded. Our country is founded on the principles of liberty and democracy, and if these ideals are to be preserved we must elect officials who are knowledgeable and have open minds.

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