To say that any people are not fit for freedom, is to make poverty their choice, and to say they had rather be loaded with taxes than not. – Thomas Paine
When men yield up the privilege of thinking, the last shadow of liberty quits the horizon. – Thomas Paine
I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death. – Thomas Paine
The strength and power of despotism consists wholly in the fear of resistance. – Thomas Paine