To suppose that any form of government will secure liberty or happiness without any virtue in the people, is a chimerical idea. – James Madison
The people are the only legitimate fountain of power, and it is from them that the constitutional charter, under which the several branches of government hold their power, is derived. – James Madison
What is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary. – James Madison
A well regulated militia, composed of the body of the people, trained in arms, is the best most natural defense of a free country. – James Madison