Benjamin Franklin on dissent

It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority.

~ Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin
1869

Abraham Lincoln on interfering with slavery in the South

I have no purpose, directly or indirectly, to interfere with the institution of slavery in the states where it exists. I believe I have no lawful right to do so, and I have no inclination to do so.

~ Abraham Lincoln, inaugural address, March 4, 1861

Abraham Lincoln
1869

Thomas Jefferson on self-government

May [our Declaration of Independence] be to the world, what I believe it will be (to some parts sooner, to others later, but finally to all), the signal of arousing men to burst the chains under which monkish ignorance and superstition had persuaded them to bind themselves, and to assume the blessings and security of self-government... All eyes are opened, or opening, to the rights of man.

~ Thomas Jefferson

Signing of Declaration
1869