The essence of a free government consists in an effectual control of rivalries. John Adams consistcontroleffectual Change image and share on social
Power always thinks... that it is doing God's service when it is violating all his laws. John Adams godlawpower Change image and share on social
The Hebrews have done more to civilize men than any other nation. If I were an atheist, and believed blind eternal fate, I should still believe that fate had ordained the Jews to be the most essential instrument for civilizing the nations. John Adams atheistbelieveblind share on social
I always consider the settlement of America with reverence and wonder, as the opening of a grand scene and design in providence, for the illumination of the ignorant and the emancipation of the slavish part of mankind all over the earth. John Adams americadesignearth share on social
As much as I converse with sages and heroes, they have very little of my love and admiration. I long for rural and domestic scene, for the warbling of birds and the prattling of my children. John Adams admirationbirdchild Change image and share on social
I, poor creature, worn out with scribbling for my bread and my liberty, low in spirits and weak in health, must leave others to wear the laurels which I have sown, others to eat the bread which I have earned. A common case. John Adams breadcasecommon share on social
Because power corrupts, society's demands for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases. John Adams authoritycharactercorrupt Change image and share on social
Old minds are like old horses; you must exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order. John Adams exercisehorsemind Change image and share on social
I must not write a word to you about politics, because you are a woman. John Adams politicwomanword Change image and share on social
