Quote#Freedom
The disorders and miseries, which result, gradually incline the minds…
Quote byGeorge Washington · 1732–1799
Commonly attributed — not confirmed in an authoritative edition. Cited on Wikiquote to: Farewell Address (1796).
English (original)
The disorders and miseries, which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of Public Liberty.
— George Washington
More from George Washington
Tis true, I profess myself a Votary to Love — I acknowledge that a Lady is in the Case — and further I confess, that this Lady is known to you.
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Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure of a government gives force to public opinion, it is essential that public opinion should be enlightened.
Nothing is a greater stranger to my breast, or a sin that my soul more abhors, than that black and detestable one, ingratitude.
there is a Destiny, which has the Sovereign controul of our Actions — not to be resisted by the strongest efforts of Human Nature.
Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all.