Thomas Jefferson
United States
13 Apr 1743 // 4 Jul 1826
Statesman, Politician
13 Apr 1743 // 4 Jul 1826
Statesman, Politician
Quotes
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There is no truth existing which I fear, or would wish unknown to the whole world.
The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do.
It is error alone which needs the support of government. Truth can stand by itself.
Notes on Virginia
The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield and government to gain ground.
In matters of principle, stand like a rock. In matters of taste, swim with the current.
I'm a great believer in luck, and I find that the harder I work, the more I have of it.
Were we directed from Washington when to sow, & when to reap, we should soon want bread.
It is neither wealth nor splendor, but tranquility and occupation, which give happiness.
Peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none.
First Inaugural Address
Whenever a man has cast a longing eye on them [offices], a rottenness begins in his conduct.
Letter to Tench Coxe, 1799
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On Anger: "For every minute you remain angry, you give up sixty seconds of peace of mind."
Essays
Essays
On Destiny: "Our destiny exercises its influence over us even when, as yet, we have not learned its nature: it is our future that lays down the law of our today."
Human, All Too Human
Human, All Too Human
On Friendship: "A crowd is not company; and faces are but a gallery of pictures; and talk but a tinkling cymbal, where there is no love."
Essays
Essays