Discover a wealth of wisdom and insight from George Washington through their most impactful and thought-provoking quotes and sayings. Expand your perspective with their inspiring words and share these beautiful George Washington quote pictures with your friends and followers on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or your personal blog - all free of charge. We've compiled the top 666 George Washington quotes for you to explore and share with others.

My anxious recollections, my sympathetic feeling, and my best wishes are irresistibly excited whensoever, in any country, I see an oppressed nation unfurl the banners of freedom. By George Washington Recollections Feeling Whensoever Country Freedom

To enlarge the sphere of social happiness is worthy of the benevolent design of a Masonic institution; and it is most fervently to be wished, that the conduct of every member of the fraternity, as well as those publications, that discover the principles which actuate them, may tend to convince mankind that the grand object of Masonry is to promote the happiness of the human race.[Letter to the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, January 1793] By George Washington Grand January Happiness Letter Massachusetts

Because of this ever increasing discernment of the true Mason he/she will find more efficient ways to apply brotherly love, relief and truth. By George Washington Mason Love Relief Truth Increasing

Being persuaded that a just application of the principles, on which the Masonic Fraternity is founded, must be promote of private virtue and public prosperity, I shall always be happy to advance the interests of the Society, and to be considered by them as a deserving brother. By George Washington Society Masonic Fraternity Principles Founded

So far as I am acquainted with the principles and doctrines of Freemasonry, I conceive it to be founded in benevolence and to be exercised only for the good of mankind. By George Washington Freemasonry Mankind Acquainted Principles Doctrines

What astonishing changes a few years are capable of producing! I am told that even respectable characters speak of a monarchical form of government without horror. From thinking proceeds speaking, thence to acting is often but a single step. But how irrevocable & tremendous! What a triumph for the advocates of despotism to find that we are incapable of governing ourselves, and that systems founded on the basis of equal liberty are merely ideal & falacious! Would to God that wise measures may be taken in time to avert the consequences we have but too much reason to apprehend. By George Washington Producing Astonishing Years Capable Horror

Upon the whole I doubt whether the Benefits of opposition to the Constitution opposition to the Constitution will not ultimately be productive of more good than evil; it has called forth, in its defence, abilities which would not perhaps have been otherwise exerted that have thrown a new light upon the science of government, It has given the rights of man a full and fair discussion, and explained them in so clear and forcible a manner, as cannot fail to make a lasting impression. By George Washington Constitution Opposition Benefits Evil Defence

Do not suffer your good nature [ ... ] to say yes when you ought to say no; remember that it is a public not a private cause that is to be injured or benefitted by your choice By George Washington Nature Remember Choice Suffer Good

I was sorry to see the gloomy picture which you drew of the affairs of your Country in your letter of December; but I hope events have not turned out so badly as you then apprehended. Of all the animosities which have existed among mankind, those which are caused by a difference of sentiments in religion appear to be the most inveterate and distressing, and ought most to be deprecated. I was in hopes, that the enlightened and liberal policy, which has marked the present age, would at least have reconciled Christians of every denomination so far, that we should never again see their religious disputes carried to such a pitch as to endanger the peace of Society.[Letter to Edward Newenham, 20 October 1792 about violence between Catholics and Protestants] By George Washington December Country Apprehended Letter Gloomy

May the children of the stock of Abraham who dwell in this land continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants-while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid. May the father of all mercies scatter light, and not darkness, upon our paths, and make us all in our several vocations useful here, and in His own due time and way everlastingly happy. By George Washington Abraham Afraid Make Children Stock

The spirit of encroachment tends to consolidate the powers of all the departments in one, and thus to create whatever the form of government, a real despotism. A just estimate of that love of power, and proneness to abuse it, which predominates in the human heart is sufficient to satisfy us of the truth of this position. By George Washington Government Despotism Spirit Encroachment Consolidate

When one side only of a story is heard and often repeated, the human mind becomes impressed with it insensibly. By George Washington Repeated Insensibly Side Story Heard

There exists in the economy and course of nature, an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness; between duty and advantage; between the genuine maxims of an honest and magnanimous policy, and the solid rewards of public prosperity and felicity; since we ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained. By George Washington Heaven Nature Happiness Advantage Policy

I never did, nor do I believe I ever shall, give advice to a woman who is setting out on a matrimonial voyage; first, because I never could advise one to marry without her own consent; and, secondly, I know it is to no purpose to advise her to refrain when she has obtained it. A woman very rarely asks an opinion or requires advice on such an occasion, till her resolution is formed; and then it is with the hope and expectation of obtaining a sanction, not that she means to be governed by your disapprobation, that she applies. By George Washington Advise Woman Give Voyage Consent

You will permit me to say, that a greater drama is now acting on this theatre than has heretofore been brought on the American tage, or any other in the world. We exhibit at present the novel and astonishing spectacle of a whole people deliberating calmly on what form of government will be most conducive to their happiness; and deciding with an unexpected degree of unanimity in favour of a system which they conceive calculated to answer the purpose. By George Washington American Tage World Permit Greater

There is an opinion that parties in free countries are useful checks upon the administration of the government, and serve to keep alive the spirit of liberty. This, within certain limits, is probably true, and, in governments of a monarchical cast, patriotism may look with indulgence, if not with favor, upon the spirit of party. But in those of the popular character, in governments purely elective, it is a spirit not to be encouraged. By George Washington Spirit Liberty Governments Opinion Parties

We take the star from Heaven, the red from our mother country, separating it by white stripes, thus showing that we have separated from her, and the white stripes shall go down to posterity representing liberty. By George Washington Heaven White Stripes Country Separating

No taxes can be devised which are not more or less inconvenient and unpleasant. By George Washington Unpleasant Taxes Devised Inconvenient

Government being, among other purposes, instituted to protect the consciences of men from oppression, it certainly is the duty of Rulers, not only to abstain from it themselves, but according to their stations, to prevent it in others. By George Washington Rulers Government Purposes Instituted Oppression

[M]y fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe; who presides in the councils of nations; and whose providential aid can supply every human defect; that his benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the People of the United States, a Government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage to the Great Author of every public and private good. By George Washington States Almighty People United Government

I now make it my earnest prayer that God would have you and the State over which you preside in His holy protection ... that He would most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation. By George Washington Humility God State Divine Author

Oh, eternal and everlasting God, direct my thoughts, words and work. Wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb and purge my heart by Thy Holy Spirit. Daily, frame me more and more in the likeness of Thy son, Jesus Christ, that living in Thy fear, and dying in Thy favor, I may in thy appointed time obtain the resurrection of the justified unto eternal life. Bless, O Lord, the whole race of mankind and let the world be filled with the knowledge of Thee and Thy son, Jesus Christ. By George Washington Thy God Jesus Christ Direct

A people contending for life and liberty are seldom disposed to look with a favorable eye upon either men or measures whose passions, interests or consequences will clash with those inestimable objects. By George Washington Passions Interests Objects People Contending

If the minority, and a small one too, is suffered to dictate to the majority, after measures have undergone the most solemn discussions by the representatives of the people, and their will through this medium is enacted into a law, there can be no security for life, liberty, or property; nor, if the laws are not to govern, can any man know how to conduct himself in safety. By George Washington Liberty Minority Majority People Life

Among many other weighty objections to the Measure, it has been suggested, that it has a tendency to introduce religious disputes into the Army, which above all things should be avoided, and in many instances would compel men to a mode of Worship which they do not profess. By George Washington Measure Army Worship Suggested Avoided

With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your later days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable. I cannot ... I cannot come to each of you but shall feel obliged if each of you will come and take me by the hand. By George Washington Gratitude Heart Full Love Leave

Of Congress, "party disputes and personal quarrels are the great business of the day whilst the momentous concerns of an empire ... are but secondary considerations," that "business of a trifling nature and personal concernment withdraws their attention from matters of great national moment. By George Washington Congress Personal Business Great Party

however much such loans may temporarily relieve the situation, the Government is still indebted for the amount of the surplus thus accrued, which it must ultimately pay, while its ability to pay is not strengthened, but weakened by a continued deficit. By George Washington Government Pay Situation Accrued Strengthened

A person who is anxious to be a leader of the fashion, or one of the first to follow it, will certainly appear in the eyes of judicious men to have nothing better than a frequent change of dress to recommend him to notice. By George Washington Fashion Notice Person Anxious Leader

Be Americans. Let there be no sectionalism, no North, South, East or West. You are all dependent on one another and should be one in union. In one word, be a nation. Be Americans, and be true to yourselves. By George Washington Americans South North East West

One of George Washington's main concerns was to make sure that his soldiers had adequate supplies of meat: A part of the army has been a week without any kind of flesh, and the rest three or four days. Naked and starving as they are, we cannot enough admire the incomparable patience and fidelity of the soldiery, that they have not been ere this excited by their suffering to a general mutiny and dispersion. By George Washington George Washington Meat Flesh Days

They (the Jews) work more effectively against us, than the enemy's armies. They are a hundred times more dangerous to our liberties and the great cause we are engaged in ... It is much to be lamented that each state, long ago, has not hunted them down as pest to society and the greatest enemies we have to the happiness of America. By George Washington Jews Work Armies Effectively Enemy

While I reiterate the professions of my dependence upon Heaven ... I will observe that ... no man who is profligate in his morals ... can possibly be a true Christian. By George Washington Heaven Reiterate Professions Dependence Christian

Firearms stand next in importance to the Constitution itself. By George Washington Constitution Firearms Stand Importance

The tumultuous populace of large cities are ever to be dreaded. Their indiscriminate violence prostrates for the time all public authority, and its consequences are sometimes extensive and terrible. By George Washington Dreaded Tumultuous Populace Large Cities

In politics as in philosophy, my tenets are few and simple. The leading one of which, and indeed that which embraces most others, is to be honest and just ourselves and to exact it from others, meddling as little as possible in their affairs where our own are not involved. If this maxim was generally adopted, wars would cease and our swords would soon be converted into reap hooks and our harvests be more peaceful, abundant, and happy. By George Washington Philosophy Simple Politics Tenets Meddling

The chief duty of the National Government in connection with the currency of the country is to coin money and declare its value. Grave doubts have been entertained whether Congress is authorized by the Constitution to make any form of paper money legal tender. The present issue of United States notes has been sustained by the necessities of war; but such paper should depend for its value and currency upon its convenience in use and its prompt redemption in coin at the will of the holder, and not upon its compulsory circulation. These notes are not money, but promises to pay money. By George Washington National Government Money Chief Duty

To point out the importance of circumspection in your conduct, it may be proper to observe that a good moral character is the first essential in a man, and that the habits contracted at your age are generally indelible, and your conduct here may stamp your character through life. It is therefore highly important that you should endeavor not only to be learned but virtuous. By George Washington Conduct Character Man Indelible Life

I cannot imagine a God who rewards and punishes the objects of his creation, whose purposes are modeled after our own a God, in short, who is but a reflection of human frailty. Neither can I believe that the individual survives the death of his body, although feeble souls harbor such thoughts through fear or ridiculous egotism. Albert Einstein, German-born American physicist By George Washington God Creation Short Frailty Imagine

The Nation, which indulges towards another an habitual hatred, or an habitual fondness, is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to its animosity or to its affection, either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and its interest ... The Nation, prompted by ill-will and resentment, sometimes impels to war the Government, contrary to the best calculations of policy. The Government sometimes participates in the national propensity, and adopts through passion what reason would reject; at other times, it makes the animosity of the nation subservient to projects of hostility instigated by pride, ambition, and other sinister and pernicious motives. The peace often, sometimes perhaps the liberty, of Nations has been the victim. By George Washington Habitual Nation Slave Government Hatred

It is a much easier and less distressing thing to draw remonstrances in a comfortable room by a good fireside than to occupy a cold bleak hill and sleep under frost and snow without cloaths or blankets. By George Washington Blankets Easier Distressing Thing Draw

For myself the delay may be compared with a reprieve; for in confidence I assure you, with the world it would obtain little credit that my movements to the chair of Government will be accompanied by feelings not unlike those of a culprit who is going to the place of his execution: so unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties, without that competency of political skill, abilities and inclination which is necessary to manage the helm. By George Washington Government Ocean Reprieve Execution Cares

While all men within our territories are protected in worshipping the Deity according to the dictates of their consciences; it is rationally to be expected from them in return, that they will [demonstrate] the innocence of their lives and the beneficence of their actions; for no man, who is profligate in his morals, or a bad member of the civil community, can possibly be a true Christian, or a credit to his own religious society. By George Washington Christian Demonstrate Deity Consciences Return

May Heaven to this Union continue its beneficence By George Washington Heaven Union Beneficence Continue

Some day, following the example of the United States of America, there will be a United States of Europe. By George Washington States United America Europe Day

As Mankind becomes more liberal, they will be more apt to allow that all those who conduct themselves as worthy members of the community are equally entitled to the protections of civil government. I hope ever to see America among the foremost nations of justice and liberality. By George Washington Mankind Liberal Government Apt Conduct

All Freemasonry should be disbanded in America because our organization has been infiltrated by the Illuminati and they have bad intention for America and the World By George Washington World America Freemasonry Illuminati Disbanded

We are either a United people, or we are not. If the former, let us, in all maters of general concern act as a nation, which have national objects to promote, and a national character to support. If we are not, let us no longer act a farce by pretending to it. By George Washington United People National Act Nation

Harmony, liberal intercourse with all nations, are recommended by policy, humanity, and interest. By George Washington Harmony Humanity Liberal Nations Policy

I earnestly pray that the Omnipotent Being who has not deserted the cause of America in the hour of its extremest hazard, will never yield so fair a heritage of freedom a prey to 'Anarchy' or 'Despotism'. By George Washington Anarchy Despotism Omnipotent America Hazard

The Citizens of the United States of America have a right to applaud themselves for giving to Mankind examples of an enlarged and liberal policy: a policy worthy of imitation. All possess alike liberty of conscience and immunities of citizenship. By George Washington Policy Citizens United States America

Unhappy it is, though, to reflect that a brother's sword has been sheathed in a brother's breast and that the once-happy plains of America are either to be drenched with blood or inhabited by slaves. Sad alternative! But can a virtuous man hesitate in his choice? By George Washington Brother America Unhappy Slaves Reflect

As the first of every thing, in our situation will serve to establish a Precedent, it is devoutly wished on my part, that these precedents may be fixed on true principles. By George Washington Thing Part Principles Precedent Precedents

In the present State of America, our welfare and prosperity depend upon the cultivation of our lands and turning the produce of them to the best advantage. By George Washington America State Advantage Present Welfare

The prospect, that a good general government will in all human probability be soon established in America, affords me more substantial satisfaction; than I have ever before derived from any political event. Because there is a rational ground for believing that not only the happiness of my own countrymen, but that of mankind in general, will be promoted by it. By George Washington America Prospect Affords Satisfaction Event

I use no Porter ... in my family, but such as is made in America: both these articles may now be purchased of an excellent quality. By George Washington Porter America Family Quality Made

America ... has ever had, and I trust she ever will have, my honest exertions to promote her interest. I cannot hope that my services have been the best; but my heart tells me they have been the best that I could render. By George Washington America Interest Trust Honest Exertions

Next Monday the Convention in Virginia will assemble; we have still good hopes of its adoption here: though by no great plurality of votes. South Carolina has probably decided favourably before this time. The plot thickens fast. A few short weeks will determine the political fate of America for the present generation, and probably produce no small influence on the happiness of society through a long succession of ages to come. By George Washington Monday Convention Virginia Assemble Votes

The bosom of America is open to receive not only the Opulent and respected Stranger, but the oppressed and persecuted of all Nations and Religions; whom we shall welcome to a participation of all our rights and privileges ... By George Washington Stranger Religions America Opulent Nations

Those who have committed no faults want no pardon. We are only defending what we deem our indisputable rights. By George Washington Pardon Committed Faults Defending Deem

I hope ever to see America among the foremost nations of justice and liberty. By George Washington America Liberty Hope Foremost Nations

The United States of America should have a foundation free from the influence of clergy. By George Washington United States America Clergy Foundation

The men who mine coal and fire furnaces and balance ledgers and turn lathes and pick cotton and heal the sick and plant corn - all serve as proudly, and as profitably, for America as the statesmen who draft treaties and the legislators who enact laws. By George Washington America Corn Proudly Profitably Laws

No country upon earth ever had it more in its power to attain these blessings than United America. Wondrously strange, then, and much to be regretted indeed would it be, were we to neglect the means and to depart from the road which Providence has pointed us to so plainly; I cannot believe it will ever come to pass. By George Washington America United Country Earth Power

If to be venerated for benevolence, if to be admired for talents, if to be esteemed for patriotism, if to be beloved for philanthropy, can gratify the human mind, you must have the pleasing consolation to know that you have not lived in vain. And I flatter myself that it will not be ranked among the least grateful occurrences of your life to be assured that, so long as I retain my memory, you will be thought on with respect, veneration, and affection by your sincere friend. By George Washington Benevolence Talents Patriotism Philanthropy Mind

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor, and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee 78 requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanks-giving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness. By George Washington God Almighty Grateful Committee Nations

The truth of the matter is one knows what it's like being the president. Not I, nor any president to come hence. This is because life, thankfully, offers deeper quandaries. While in office, I would often wake up in a daze, wondering how I could wiggle my toes without even thinking it so, or why hair grows only on certain places and not our entire bodies, or why we aren't completely bald, or why we must close our eyes and sleep every night, or any of the millions of particulars of daily existence, let alone that I was elected the leader of an entire nation. By George Washington President Truth Matter Entire Thankfully

The Stamp Act imposed on the colonies by the Parliament of Great Britain is an ill-judged measure. Parliament has no right to put its hands into our pockets without our consent. By George Washington Stamp Act Great Britain Measure

A small knowledge of human nature will convince us, that, with far the greatest part of mankind, interest is the governing principle ... Few men are capable of making a continual sacrifice of all views of private interest, or advantage, to the common good. It is vain to exclaim against the depravity of human nature on this account; the fact is so, the experience of every age and nation has proved it and we must in a great measure, change the constitution of man, before we can make it otherwise. No institution, not built on the presumptive truth of these maxims can succeed. By George Washington Interest Human Mankind Principle Nature

If you can't sent money, send tobacco. By George Washington Money Send Tobacco

If you can't send money, send tobacco. By George Washington Money Tobacco Send

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible. By George Washington Prosperity Religion Supports Dispositions Habits

Bless my family, kindred, friends and country, be our God and guide this day and forever for His sake, who lay down in the grave and arose again for us, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. By George Washington Jesus Lord Kindred God Christ

Where is the man to be found who wishes to remain indebted for the defense of his own person and property to the exertions, the bravery, and the blood of others, without making one generous effort to repay the debt of honor and gratitude? By George Washington Exertions Bravery Gratitude Man Found

All obstructions to the execution of the laws, all combinations and associations, under whatever plausible character, with the real design to direct, control, counteract, or awe the regular deliberation and action of the constituted authorities, are destructive of this fundamental principle, and of fatal tendency. They serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial and extraordinary force; to put, in the place of the delegated will of the nation the will of a party, often a small but artful and enterprising minority of the community; and, according to the alternate triumphs of different parties, to make the public administration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incongruous projects of faction, rather than the organ of consistent and wholesome plans digested by common counsels and modified by mutual interests. By George Washington Control Counteract Laws Associations Character

Men may speculate as they will; they may talk of patriotism; they may draw a few examples from ancient story, of great achievements performed by its influence; but whoever builds upon it, as a sufficient Basis for conducting a long and bloody War, will find themselves deceived in the end. We must take the passions of Men as Nature has given them, and those principles as a guide which are generally the rule of Action. I do not mean to exclude altogether the Idea of Patriotism. I know it exists, and i know it has done much in the present Contest. But I will venture to assert, that a great and lasting War can never be supported on this principle alone. It must be aided by a prospect of Interest or some reward. For a time, it may, of itself push Men to Action; to bear much, to encounter difficulties; but it will not endure unassisted by Interest. By George Washington Basis Men Patriotism Action War

Working on your biceps? Try chopping down a cherry tree. By George Washington Working Biceps Tree Chopping Cherry

The time is near at hand which must determine whether Americans are to be free men or slaves. By George Washington Americans Slaves Time Hand Determine

The time is now near at hand which must probably determine whether Americans are to be freemen or slaves; whether they are to have any property they can call their own; whether their houses and farms are to be pillaged and destroyed, and themselves consigned to a state of wretchedness from which no human efforts will deliver them. The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army. Our cruel and unrelenting enemy leaves us only the choice of brave resistance, or the most abject submission. We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or die. By George Washington Americans Slaves Destroyed Time Hand

My ardent desire is, and my aim has been ... to comply strictly with all our engagements foreign and domestic; but to keep the U States free from political connections with every other Country. To see that they may be independent of all, and under the influence of none. In a word, I want an American character, that the powers of Europe may be convinced we act for ourselves and not for others; this, in my judgment, is the only way to be respected abroad and happy at home. By George Washington Ardent Desire Aim Country States

Our conflict is not likely to cease so soon as every good man would wish. The measure of iniquity is not yet filled; and unless we can return a little more to first principles, and act a little more upon patriotic ground, I do not know when it will-or-what may be the issue of the contest. Speculation-peculation-engrossing-forestalling-with all their concomitants, afford too many melancholy proofs of the decay of public virtue; and too glaring instances of its being the interest and desire of too many, who would wish to be thought friends, to continue the war. By George Washington Conflict Cease Good Man Filled

Love is said to be an involuntary passion, and it is, therefore, contended that it cannot be resisted. This is true in part only, for like all things else, when nourished and supplied plentifully with ailment, it is rapid in its progress; but let these be withdrawn and it may be stifled in its birth or much stinted in its growth. By George Washington Love Passion Contended Resisted Involuntary

Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your reputation. Be not apt to relate news, if you know not the truth thereof. Speak no evil of the absent, for it is unjust. Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to keep your promise. There is but one straight course, and that is to seek truth, and pursue it steadily. Nothing but harmony, honesty, industry and frugality are necessary to make us a great and happy nation. By George Washington Associate Quality Reputation Men Good

I hate deception, even where the imagination only is concerned. By George Washington Deception Concerned Hate Imagination

It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favors. By George Washington God Nations Almighty Benefits Favors

During this period, so many important events have occurred, and such changes in men and things have taken place, as the compass of a letter would give you but an inadequate idea of. None of which events, however, nor all of them together, have been able to eradicate from my mind, the recollection of those happy moments - the happiest of my life - which I have enjoyed in your company. By George Washington Period Occurred Place Events Important

One of the expedients of party to acquire influence, within particular districts, is to misrepresent the opinions and aims of other districts. By George Washington Districts Influence Expedients Party Acquire

Not all Masons are obligated on the Christian Bible. Masonry is universal and men of every creed are eligible for membership so long as they accept the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man. Therefore, the candidate should be obligated on the Book of the Sacred Law which he accepts as such since his obligation is a solemn and binding one. By George Washington Bible Masons Christian Obligated Man

Let thy carriage be such as becomes a man grave settled and attentive to that which is spoken. Contradict not, at every turn, what others say. By George Washington Spoken Thy Carriage Man Grave

Experience has taught us, that men will not adopt and carry into execution measures best calculated for their own good, without the intervention of a coercive power. By George Washington Experience Good Power Taught Men

To every description of citizens, let praise be given. but let them persevere in their affectionate vigilance over that precious depository of American happiness, the Constitution of the United States. Let them cherish it, too, for the sake of those who, from every clime, are daily seeking a dwelling in our land. By George Washington Citizens Description Praise States American

Europe has a set of primary interests, which to us have none, or a very remote relation. Hence she must be engaged in frequent controversies, the causes of which are essentially foreign to our concerns. Hence, therefore, it must be unwise in us to implicate ourselves, by artificial ties, in the ordinary vicissitudes of her politics or the ordinary combinations and collisions of her friendships or enmities. By George Washington Europe Interests Relation Set Primary

A hundred thousand men, coming one after another, cannot move a Ton weight; but the united strength of 50 would transport it with ease. By George Washington Ton Men Coming Weight Ease

As to pay, Sir, I beg leave to assure the Congress that as no pecuniary consideration could have tempted me to accept this arduous employment at the expense of my domestic ease and happiness, I do not wish to make any profit from it. By George Washington Sir Congress Pay Happiness Beg

We should amuse our evening hours of life in cultivating the tender plants, and bringing them to perfection, before they are transplanted to a happier clime. By George Washington Plants Perfection Clime Amuse Evening

Our cause is noble; it is the cause of mankind! By George Washington Noble Mankind

A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government. In a republic, what species of knowledge can be equally important? And what duty more pressing than communicating it to those who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the country? By George Washington Government Primary Object Education Youth

The foundations of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality, and the preeminence of free government be exemplified by all the attributes which can win the affections of its citizens, and command the respect of the world. By George Washington Morality Citizens World Foundations National

Be easy and condescending in your deportment to your officers, but not too familiar, lest you subject yourself to a want of respect, which is necessary to support a proper command. By George Washington Officers Familiar Respect Command Easy

Passionate attachment to another nation produces a variety of evils ... the illusion of common interests where no real common interests exist; adopting the enmities of the other; and participation in the quarrels and wars of the other without any justification. Still another evil is that such a passionate attachment gives to ambitious, corrupted, or deluded citizens the facility to betray or sacrifice the interests of their own country. By George Washington Interests Passionate Attachment Nation Produces

The nation which indulges toward another a habitual hatred or a habitual fondness is in some degree a slave. It is a slave to it animosity or two its affection, either of which is sufficient to lead it astray from its duty and it's interest. By George Washington Habitual Slave Nation Indulges Hatred

Upon the decease [of] my wife, it is my Will and desire th[at] all the Slaves which I hold in [my] own right, shall receive their free[dom] ... The Negroes thus bound, are (by their Masters or Mistresses) to be taught to read and write; and to be brought up to some useful occupation, agreeably to the Laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, providing for the support of Orphan and other poor Children. And I do hereby expressly forbid the Sale, or transportation out of the said Commonwealth, of any Slave I may die possessed of, under any pretence whatsoever. By George Washington Dom Commonwealth Decease Wife Free

convincing those who are intrusted with the public administration that every valuable end of government is best answered by the enlightened confidence of the people, and by teaching the people themselves to know and to value their own rights; to discern and provide against invasions of them; to distinguish between oppression and the necessary exercise of lawful authority; By George Washington People Convincing Authority Intrusted Public

In the discharge of this trust I will only say that I have, with good intentions, contributed toward the organization and administration of the Government the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable. By George Washington Government Intentions Contributed Capable Discharge

My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her. By George Washington Mother Beautiful Woman Owe Moral

[Let] the poor the needy and oppressed of the Earth, and those who want Land, resort to the fertile lands of our western country, the second land of Promise, and there dwell in peace, fulfilling the first and great commandment. By George Washington Land Earth Promise Lands Resort

I wish to see the sons and daughters of the world in Peace and busily employed in the more agreeable amusement of fulfilling the first and great commandment, Increase and Multiply : as an encouragement to which we have opened the fertile plains of the Ohio to the poor, the needy and the oppressed of the Earth; any one therefore who is heavy laden, or who wants land to cultivate, may repair thither and abound, as in the Land of promise, with milk and honey: the ways are preparing, and the roads will be made easy, thro' the channels of Potomac and James river. By George Washington Land Increase Multiply Earth Peace

I never mean, unless some particular circumstances should compel it, to possess another slave by purchase, it being among my first wishes to see some plan adopted, by which slavery in this country may be abolished by law. By George Washington Purchase Adopted Law Circumstances Compel

It is a maxim, founded on the universal experience of mankind, that no nation is to be trusted farther than it is bound by its interest; and no prudent statesman or politician will venture to depart from it. By George Washington Maxim Founded Mankind Interest Universal

The crisis is arrived when we must assert our rights, or submit to every imposition, that can be heaped upon us, till custom and use shall make us as tame and abject slaves, as the blacks we rule over with such arbitrary sway. By George Washington Imposition Till Slaves Sway Crisis

Government is at best a petulant servant and at worst a tyrannical master. By George Washington Government Master Petulant Servant Worst

Providence has at all times been my only dependence, for all other resources seemed to have failed us. By George Washington Providence Dependence Times Resources Failed

I am again called upon by the voice of my country to execute the functions of its Chief Magistrate. By George Washington Magistrate Chief Called Voice Country

I am once more seated under my own vine and fig tree ... and hope to spend the remainder of my days in peaceful retirement, making political pursuits yield to the more rational amusement of cultivating the earth. By George Washington Tree Retirement Making Earth Seated

Avoiding occasions of expense by cultivating peace, we should remember also that timely disbursements to prepare for danger frequently prevent much greater disbursements to repel it By George Washington Disbursements Avoiding Peace Occasions Expense

I have often expressed my sentiments, that every man, conducting himself as a good citizen, and being accountable to God alone for his religious opinions, ought to be protected in worshipping the Deity according to the dictates of his own conscience. By George Washington God Deity Sentiments Man Conducting

Uniformity in the currency, weights, and measures of the United States is an object of great importance, and will, I am persuaded, be duly attended to. By George Washington Weights United States Uniformity Currency

To secure respect to a neutral flag requires a naval force organized and ready to vindicate it from insult or aggression. By George Washington Aggression Secure Respect Neutral Flag

At my age, and in my circumstances, what sinister object, or personal emolument had I to seek after, in this life? The growing infirmities of age and the increasing love of retirement, daily confirm my decided predilection for domestic life: and the great Searcher of human hearts is my witness, that I have no wish, which aspires beyond the humble and happy lot of living and dying a private citizen on my own farm. By George Washington Life Circumstances Object Age Sinister

Conscience ... seldom comes to a man's aid while he is in the zenith of health and revelling in pomp and luxury upon illgotten spoils. It is generally the last act of his life, and it comes too late to be of much service to others here, or to himself hereafter. By George Washington Conscience Seldom Spoils Man Aid

No man has a more perfect reliance on the alwise and powerful dispensations of the Supreme Being than I have, nor thinks His aid more necessary. By George Washington Supreme Man Perfect Reliance Alwise

Bad seed is a robbery of the worst kind: for your pocket-book not only suffers by it, but your preparations are lost and a season passes away unimproved. By George Washington Bad Kind Unimproved Seed Robbery

It is important, likewise, that the habits of thinking in a free Country should inspire caution in those entrusted with its administration, to confine themselves within their respective Constitutional spheres; avoiding in the exercise of the Powers of one department to encroach upon another. By George Washington Likewise Country Constitutional Powers Important

The necessity of procuring good Intelligence is apparent & need not be further urged-All that remains for me to add, is, that you keep the whole matter as secret as possible. For upon Secrecy, Success depends in most Enterprizes of the kind, and for want of it, they are generally defeated, however well planned & promising a favourable issue. By George Washington Intelligence Apparent Add Necessity Procuring

While just government protects all in their religious rites, true religion affords government its surest support. By George Washington Rites True Support Government Protects

I shall take my present leave-but not without resorting once more to the benign Parent of the Human Race in humble supplication [prayer] that ... His Divine blessing may be equally conspicuous in ... the wise measures on which the success of this government must depend. By George Washington Prayer Parent Human Race Supplication

Painful as the task is to describe the dark side of our affairs, it sometimes becomes a matter of indispensable necessity. By George Washington Painful Affairs Necessity Task Describe

In a word, if this country can steer clear of European politics, stand firm on its bottom, and be wise and temperate in its government, it bids fair to be one of the greatest and happiest nations in the world. By George Washington European Word Politics Stand Bottom

The Church says that the earth is flat, but I know that it is round, for I have seen the shadow on the moon, and I have more faith in a shadow than in the Church. Ferdinand Magellan, Portuguese and Spanish explorer By George Washington Church Shadow Flat Round Moon

All see, and most admire, the glare which hovers round the external trappings of elevated office. To me there is nothing in it, beyond the lustre which may be reflected from its connection with a power of promoting human felicity. By George Washington Admire Office Glare Hovers Round

The common and continual mischief's [sic] of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and the duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain it. It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another, foments occasionally riot and insurrection. It opens the door to foreign influence and corruption, which find a facilitated access to the government itself through the channels of party passion. By George Washington Sic Mischief Common Continual Spirit

Religion is as necessary to reason as reason is to religion. The one cannot exist without the other. A reasoning being would lose his reason, in attempting to account for the great phenomena of nature, had he not a Supreme Being to refer to; and well has it been said, that if there had been no God, mankind would have been obliged to imagine one. By George Washington Religion Reason God Supreme Exist

When firearms go, all goes - we need them every hour. By George Washington Hour Firearms

I do not mean to exclude altogether the idea of patriotism. I know it exists, and I know it has done much in the present contest. But I will venture to assert, that a great and lasting war can never be supported on this principle alone. It must be aided by a prospect of interest, or some reward. By George Washington Patriotism Exclude Altogether Idea Exists

It is with pleasure I receive reproof, when reproof is due, because no person can be readier to accuse me, than I am to acknowledge an error, when I am guilty of one; nor more desirous of atoning for a crime, when I am sensible of having committed it. By George Washington Reproof Due Error Crime Pleasure

In disputes, be not so desirous to overcome as to not give liberty to each one to deliver his opinion and submit to the judgment of the major part, especially if they are judges of the dispute. By George Washington Disputes Dispute Part Desirous Overcome

Men of real talents in Arms have commonly approved themselves patrons of the liberal arts and friends to the poets, of their own as well as former times. In some instances by acting reciprocally, heroes have made poets, and poets heroes. By George Washington Arms Men Times Poets Real

No pecuniary consideration is more urgent, than the regular redemption and discharge of the public debt: on none can delay be more injurious, or an economy of time more valuable.~Message to the House of Representatives, 3 December 1793 By George Washington December Message Representatives House Urgent

Three things prompt men to a regular discharge of their duty in time of action: natural bravery, hope of reward, and fear of punishment. By George Washington Action Natural Bravery Hope Reward

I know of no pursuit in which more real and important services can be rendered to any country than by improving its agriculture, its breed of useful animals, and other branches of a husbandman's cares. By George Washington Agriculture Animals Cares Pursuit Real

Rise early, that by habit it may become familiar, agreeable, healthy, and profitable. By George Washington Agreeable Healthy Rise Early Familiar

The art of war is at once comprehensive and complicated; ... it demands much previous study; and ... the possession of it, in its most improved and perfect state, is always a great moment to the security of a nation. This, therefore, ought to be a serious care of every government; and for this purpose, an academy, where a regular course of instruction is given, is an obvious expedient, which different nations have successfully employed. By George Washington Complicated Art War Comprehensive Study

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be. By George Washington Thursday November People States Author

I am led to reflect how much more delightful to an undebauched mind is the task of making improvements on the earth, than all the vain glory which can be acquired from ravaging it by the most uninterrupted career of conquests. By George Washington Earth Conquests Led Reflect Delightful

A tribute ... is due to the talents, the rectitude, and the patriotism, which adorn the characters selected to devise and adopt [the Constitution]. In these honorable qualifications I behold the surest pledges that as on one side no local prejudices or attachments no separate views, nor party animosities, will misdirect the comprehensive and equal eye which ought to watch over this great assemblage of communities and interests; so, on another, that the foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality. By George Washington Constitution Tribute Talents Rectitude Patriotism

I heard the bullets whistle and believe me, there is something charming in the sound. By George Washington Sound Heard Bullets Whistle Charming

To persevere in one's duty, and be silent is the best answer to calumny By George Washington Duty Calumny Persevere Silent Answer

Happy, thrice happy shall they be pronounced hereafter, who have contributed any thing, who have performed the meanest office in erecting this stupendous fabrick of Freedom and Empire on the broad basis of Independency; who have assisted in protecting the rights of humane nature and establishing an Asylum for the poor and oppressed of all nations and religions. By George Washington Independency Freedom Empire Asylum Happy

Freemasonry is founded on the immutable laws of Truth and Justice and its grand object is to promote the happiness of the human race. By George Washington Truth Justice Freemasonry Race Founded

If to please the people,we offer what we ourselves disapprove, how can we afterwards defend our work? Let us raise a standard to which the wise and honest can repair. The rest is in the hands of God. By George Washington Disapprove Work Peoplewe Offer Defend

It is too probable that no plan we propose will be adopted. Perhaps another dreadful conflict is to be sustained. If, to please the people, we offer what we ourselves disprove, how can we afterwards defend our work? Let us raise a standard to which the wise and the honest can repair. The event is in the hand of God. By George Washington Adopted Probable Plan Propose Sustained

Without a decisive naval force we can do nothing definitive. By George Washington Definitive Decisive Naval Force

If we mean to support the liberty and independence which has cost us so much blood and treasure to establish, we must drive far away the demon of party spirit and local reproach. By George Washington Establish Reproach Support Liberty Independence

The signal instances of Providential goodness which we have experienced and which have now almost crowned our labors with complete success demand from us in a peculiar manner the warmest returns of gratitude and piety to the Supreme Author of all good. By George Washington Providential Supreme Author Good Signal

Be courteous to all, but personal with number of, and allow those couple be perfectly attempted ahead of you provide them with your self-assurance. By George Washington Selfassurance Courteous Personal Number Couple

I assure you very explicitly, that in my opinion the conscientious scruples of all men should be treated with great delicacy and tenderness: and it is my wish and desire, that the laws may always be extensively accommodated to them, as a due regard for the protection and essential interests of the nation may justify and permit. By George Washington Explicitly Tenderness Desire Permit Assure

Let us therefore animate and encourage each other, and show the whole world that a Freeman, contending for liberty on his own ground, is superior to any slavish mercenary on earth. By George Washington Freeman Contending Ground Earth Animate

The views of men can only be known, or guessed at, by their words or actions. By George Washington Actions Views Men Guessed Words

The Commander in Chief directs that Divine service be performed every Sunday at 11 o'clock ... It is expected that officers of all ranks will by their attendance set an example to their men. By George Washington Oclock Commander Chief Divine Sunday

I am very glad to hear that the Gardener has saved so much of the St. foin seed, and that of the India Hemp. Make the most you can of both, by sowing them again in drills ... Let the ground be well prepared, and the Seed (St. loin) be sown in April. The Hemp may be sown any where. By George Washington Gardener India Seed Hemp Glad

The best means of forming a manly, virtuous, and happy people will be found in the right education of youth. Without this foundation, every other means, in my opinion, must fail. By George Washington Virtuous Manly Youth Forming Happy

While we are contending for our own liberty, we should be very cautious not to violate the conscience of others, ever considering that God alone is the judge of the hearts of men, and to Him only in this case are they answerable. By George Washington God Liberty Men Answerable Contending

Differences in political opinions are as unavoidable as, to a certain point, they may perhaps be necessary; but it is exceedingly to be regretted that subjects cannot be discussed with temper on the one hand, or decisions submitted to without having the motives, which led to them, improperly implicated on the other; and this regret borders on chagrin when we find that men of abilities, zealous patriots, having the same general objects in view, and the same upright intentions to prosecute them, will not exercise more charity in deciding on the opinions and actions of one another. By George Washington Opinions Differences Point Hand Motives

As I have heard, since my arrival at this place, a circumstantial account of my death and dying speech, I take this early opportunity of contradicting the first, and of assuring you, that I have not as yet composed the latter. But by the All-Powerful Dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability or expectation; for I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, although death was leveling my companions on every side of me! By George Washington Heard Place Speech Death Arrival

In his address of 19 September 1796, given as he prepared to leave office, President George Washington spoke about the importance of morality to the country's well-being: Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and Morality are indispensable supports ... And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion ... Can it be that Providence has not connected the permanent felicity of a Nation with its virtue? By George Washington September President George Washington Morality

We began a contest for liberty ill provided with the means for the war, relying on our patriotism to supply the deficiency. We expected to encounter many wants and distressed ... we must bear the present evils and fortitude ... By George Washington War Relying Deficiency Began Contest

Hence, likewise, they will avoid the necessity of those overgrown military establishments, which, under any form of government, are inauspicious to liberty, and which are to be regarded as particularly hostile to Republican Liberty. In this sense it is, that your Union ought to be considered as a main prop of your liberty, and that the love of the one ought to endear to you the preservation of the other. By George Washington Liberty Republican Likewise Establishments Government

Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains to bring it to light. By George Washington Truth Light Ultimately Prevail Pains

Harrison's 8,400-word inaugural speech was the longest ever, while his 30-day Presidency was the shortest. By George Washington Harrison Presidency Inaugural Shortest Speech

I am not only retired from all public employments, but I am retiring within myself, and shall be able to view the solitary walk and tread the paths of private life with heartfelt satisfaction. By George Washington Employments Satisfaction Retired Public Retiring

The blessed Religion revealed in the word of God will remain an eternal and awful monument to prove that the best Institution may be abused by human depravity; and that they may even, in some instances be made subservient to the vilest purposes. By George Washington Religion God Institution Depravity Purposes

The consideration that human happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected will always continue to prompt me to promote the former by inculcating the practice of the latter. By George Washington Consideration Human Happiness Moral Duty

Your love of liberty your respect for the laws your habits of industry and your practice of the moral and religious obligations, are the strongest claims to national and individual happiness. By George Washington Obligations Happiness Love Liberty Respect

We have abundant reason to rejoice that in this Land the light of truth and reason has triumphed over the power of bigotry and superstition, and that every person may here worship God according to the dictates of his own heart. In this enlightened Age and in this Land of equal liberty it is our boast, that a man's religious tenets will not forfeit the protection of the Laws, nor deprive him of the right of attaining and holding the highest Offices that are known in the United States. By George Washington Land Reason God Superstition Heart

He establishment of Civil and Religious Liberty was the Motive that induced me to the field of battle. By George Washington Civil Religious Liberty Motive Battle

Let me live according to those holy rules which Thou hast this day prescribed in Thy Holy Word ... direct me to the true object, Jesus Christ, the way, the truth, and the life. Bless, O Lord, all the people of this land. By George Washington Holy Word Thou Thy Live

Let me ... warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party. By George Washington Warn Party Solemn Manner Baneful

All combinations and associations, under whatever plausible character, with the real design to direct, control, counteract, or awe the regular deliberation and action of the constituted authorities, are destructive of this fundamental principle, and of fatal tendency. They serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial and extraordinary force; to put, in the place of the delegated will of the nation the will of a party, often a small but artful and enterprising minority of the community. By George Washington Control Counteract Associations Character Direct

The General most earnestly requires, and expects, a due observance of those articles of war, established for the government of the army which forbid profane cursing, swearing and drunkenness; and in like manner requires and expects, of all officers, and soldiers, not engaged on actual duty, a punctual attendance on divine service, to implore the blessings of heaven upon the means used for our safety and defence. By George Washington Expects Requires General War Established

When it was reported to General Washington that the army was frequently indulging in swearing, he immediately sent out the following order: The general is sorry to be informed that the foolish and wicked practice of profane cursing and swearing - a vice little known heretofore in the American army - is growing into fashion. Let the men and officers reflect "that we can not hope for the blessing of heaven on our army if we insult it by our impiety and folly." By George Washington General Swearing Washington American Army

The hour is fast approaching, on which the Honor and Success of this army, and the safety of our bleeding Country depend. Remember officers and Soldiers, that you are free men, fighting for the blessings of Liberty that slavery will be your portion, and that of your posterity, if you do not acquit yourselves like men. By George Washington Honor Success Country Approaching Army

An army formed of good officers moves like clockwork; but there is no situation upon earth less enviable, nor more distressing, than that person's who is at the head of troops which are regardless of order and discipline. By George Washington Clockwork Enviable Distressing Discipline Army

One's god dictates the kind of law one implements and also controls the application and development of that law over time. Given enough time, all non-Christian systems of law self-destruct in a fit of tyranny. By George Washington Time Law God Dictates Kind

It is much easier at all times to prevent an evil than to rectify mistakes. By George Washington Mistakes Easier Times Prevent Evil

The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation. By George Washington Veterans Justified Nation Willingness Young

What is most important of this grand experiment, the United States? Not the election of the first president but the election of its second president. The peaceful transition of power is what will separate this country from every other country in the world. By George Washington States United Experiment Election Important

A woman ... all beautiful and accomplished will, while her hand and heart are undisposed of, turn the heads and set the circle in which she moves on fire. Let her marry, and what is the consequence? The madness ceases and all is quiet again. Why? Not because there is any diminution in the charms of the lady, but because there is an end of hope. By George Washington Woman Turn Fire Beautiful Accomplished

Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession. By George Washington Experience Possession Teaches Easier Prevent

I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do, to see a plan adopted for the abolition of it - but there is only one proper and effectual mode by which it can be accomplished, and that is by Legislative authority: and this, as far as my suffrage will go, shall never be wanting. By George Washington Legislative Accomplished Authority Wanting Man

The liberty enjoyed by the people of these states of worshiping Almighty God agreebly to their conscience, is not only among the choicest of their blessings, but also of their rights. By George Washington Almighty God Conscience Blessings Liberty

There was not a member of the Constitutional Convention who had the least objection to what is contended for by the advocates for a Bill of Rights and trial by jury. By George Washington Constitutional Convention Bill Jury Member

Impressed with a conviction that the due administration of justice is the firmest pillar of good Government, I have considered the first arrangement of the Judicial department as essential to the happiness of our Country, and to the stability of its political system. By George Washington Government Country Judicial Impressed System

No morn ever dawned more favorable than ours did; and no day was every more clouded than the present! Wisdom, and good examples are necessary at this time to rescue the political machine from the impending storm. By George Washington Present Morn Dawned Favorable Day

To each of my Nephews, William Augustine Washington, George Lewis, George Steptoe Washington, Bushrod Washington, and Samuel Washington, I give one of my swords or Cutteaux of which I may be Possesed; and they are to chuse in the order they are named. These Swords are accompanied with an injuction not to unsheath them for the purpose of shedding blood, except it be for self defense, or in the defense of their Country and its rights; and in the latter case, to keep them unsheathed, and prefer falling with them in their hands, to the relenquishment thereof. By George Washington Washington George Nephews William Lewis

If we are wise, let us prepare for the worst. By George Washington Wise Worst Prepare

[T]he gradual extension of our settlements will as certainly cause the savage, as the wolf, to retire; both being beasts of prey, though they differ in shape. By George Washington Savage Wolf Retire Prey Shape

Unwilling am I, in the evening of a life nearly consumed in public cares, to quit a peaceful abode for an Ocean of difficulties By George Washington Ocean Unwilling Cares Difficulties Evening

I consider it an indubitable mark of mean-spiritedness and pitiful vanity to court applause from the pen or tongue of man. By George Washington Man Indubitable Mark Meanspiritedness Pitiful

I can never think of promoting my convenience at the expense of a friend's interest and inclination. By George Washington Inclination Promoting Convenience Expense Friend

We must never despair; our situation has been compromising before, and it has changed for the better; so I trust it will again. If difficulties arise, we must put forth new exertion and proportion our efforts to the exigencies of the times. By George Washington Despair Situation Compromising Changed Trust

A slender acquaintance with the world must convince every man that actions, not words, are the true criterion of the attachment of friends. By George Washington Actions Words Friends Slender Acquaintance

Of all the animosities which have existed among mankind, those which are caused by a difference of sentiments in religion appear to be the most inveterate and distressing, and ought to be deprecated. I was in hopes that the enlightened and liberal policy, which has marked the present age, would at least have reconciled Christians of every denomination so far that we should never again see the religious disputes carried to such a pitch as to endanger the peace of society. By George Washington Mankind Distressing Deprecated Animosities Existed

Labor to keep alive in your breast that little spark of celestial fire called conscience. By George Washington Labor Conscience Alive Breast Spark

My death has not yet quite arrived, but it is near and inevitable as night follows day. By George Washington Arrived Day Death Inevitable Night

The Arts and Sciences, essential to the prosperity of the State and to the ornament of human life, have a primary claim to the encouragement of every lover of his country and mankind. By George Washington Sciences Arts State Essential Life

The duty of holding a Neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity toward other Nations. By George Washington Nation Nations Neutral Peace Inferred

Having now finished the work assigned me, I retire from the great theatre of Action; and bidding an Affectionate farewell to this August body under whose orders I have so long acted, I here offer my Commission, and take my leave of all the employments of public life. (Address to Congress on Resigning Commission Dec 23, 1783) By George Washington Action Affectionate August Commission Acted

It is not the lowest priced goods that are always the cheapest - the quality is, or ought to be as much an object with the purchaser, as the price. By George Washington Cheapest Purchaser Price Lowest Priced

I regret exceedingly that the disputes between the protestants and Roman Catholics should be carried to the serious alarming height mentioned in your letters. Religious controversies are always productive of more acrimony and irreconcilable hatreds than those which spring from any other cause; and I was not without hopes that the enlightened and liberal policy of the present age would have put an effectual stop to contentions of this kind.[Letter to Sir Edward Newenham, 22 June 1792] By George Washington Roman Catholics Regret Exceedingly Disputes

It is easy to make acquaintances, but very difficult to shake them off, however irksome and unprofitable they are found, after we have once committed ourselves to them. By George Washington Acquaintances Found Easy Make Difficult

Excessive partiality for one foreign nation and excessive dislike of another cause those whom they actuate to see danger only on one side, and serve to veil and even second the arts of influence on the other. Real patriots who may resist the intrigues of the favorite are liable to become suspected and odious, while its tools and dupes usurp the applause and confidence of the people, to surrender their interests. By George Washington Excessive Side Partiality Foreign Nation

Make the most of the Indian Hemp Seed and sow it everywhere. By George Washington Indian Hemp Seed Make Sow

It is substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule, indeed, extends with more or less force to every species of free government. By George Washington Government True Substantially Virtue Morality

There never was a law yet made, I conceive, that hit the taste exactly of every man, or every part of the community; of course, if this be a reason for opposition, no law can be executed at all without force, and every man or set of men will in that case cut and carve for themselves; the consequences of which must be deprecated by all classes of men, who are friends to order, and to the peace and happiness of the country. By George Washington Man Men Law Made Conceive

The constitution vests the power of declaring war in Congress; therefore no offensive expedition of importance can be undertaken until after they shall have deliberated upon the subject and authorized such a measure. By George Washington Congress Measure Constitution Vests Power

Houses of Congress have ... requested me to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging, with grateful hearts, the many signal favors of Almighty God. By George Washington Congress Houses God United States

I am sure that never was a people, who had more reason to acknowledge a Divine interposition in their affairs, than those of the United States; and I should be pained to believe that they have forgotten that agency, which was so often manifested during our Revolution, or that they failed to consider the omnipotence of that God who is alone able to protect them. By George Washington States Revolution Divine United God

I have always considered marriage as the most interesting event of one's life, the foundation of happiness or misery. By George Washington Life Misery Considered Marriage Interesting

A lottery is the perfect tax ... laid only upon the willing. By George Washington Tax Lottery Perfect Laid

Soap is another article in great demandthe Continental allowance is too small, and dear, as every necessary of life is now got, a soldier's pay will not enable him to purchase, by which means his consequent dirtiness adds not a little to the disease of the Army. By George Washington Army Continental Soap Small Dear

It is now no more that toleration is spoken of, as if it was by the indulgence of one class of people, that another enjoyed the exercise of their inherent natural rights. For happily the government of the United States, which gives to bigotry no sanction - to persecution no assistance, requires only that they who live under its protection should demean themselves as good citizens. By George Washington People Toleration Spoken Indulgence Class

The consciousness of having discharged that duty which we owe to our country is superior to all other considerations. By George Washington Considerations Consciousness Discharged Duty Owe

I am principled against this kind of traffic in the human species ... and to disperse the families I have an aversion. By George Washington Species Aversion Principled Kind Traffic

I am principled against selling negroes, as you would do cattle at a market. By George Washington Negroes Market Principled Selling Cattle

Our Constitution gives to bigotry no sanction. By George Washington Constitution Sanction Bigotry

Happily the Government of the United States ... gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance. By George Washington States Government United Happily Sanction

To place any dependence upon militia is assuredly resting upon a broken staff. Men just dragged from the tender scenes of domestic life, unaccustomed to the din of arms, totally unacquainted with every kind of military skill ... makes them timid and ready to fly from their own shadows. By George Washington Staff Place Dependence Militia Assuredly

I commend you, however, for passing the time in as merry a manner as you possibly could; it is assuredly better to go laughing than crying thro' the rough journey of life. By George Washington Thro Life Commend Passing Time

[M]y wish is, that the Convention may adopt no temporizing expedient, but probe the defects of the Constitution [i.e., the Articles of Confederation] to the bottom, and provide radical cures. By George Washington Constitution Confederation Convention Articles Expedient

A government is like fire, a handy servant, but a dangerous master. By George Washington Fire Servant Master Government Handy

We are persuaded that good Christians will always be good citizens, and that where righteousness prevails among individuals the Nation will be great and happy. Thus while just government protects all in their religious rights, true religion affords to government it's surest support. By George Washington Christians Nation Citizens Happy Good

The marvel of all history is the patience with which men and women submit to burdens unnecessarily laid upon them by their governments. By George Washington Governments Marvel History Patience Men

The administration of justice is the firmest pillar of government. By George Washington Government Administration Justice Firmest Pillar

The executive branch of this government never has, nor will suffer, while I preside, any improper conduct of its officers to escape with impunity. By George Washington Suffer Preside Impunity Executive Branch

An aching head and trembling limbs, which are the inevitable effects of drinking, disincline the hands from work. By George Washington Limbs Drinking Disincline Work Aching

We ought not to look back, unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dear bought experience. To enveigh against things that are past and irremediable, is unpleasing; but to steer clear of the shelves and rocks we have struck upon, is the part of wisdom, equally as incumbent on political as other men, who have their own little bark, or that of others, to navigate through the intricate paths of life, or the trackless ocean, to the haven of security and rest. By George Washington Back Errors Experience Past Derive

Like a young heir, come a little prematurely to a large inheritance, we shall wanton and run riot until we have brought our reputation to the brink of ruin, and then, like him, shall have to labor with the current of opinion, when COMPELLED perhaps, to do what prudence and common policy pointed out, as plain as any problem in Euclid, in the first instance. By George Washington Euclid Compelled Heir Inheritance Ruin

One of the difficulties in bringing about change in an organization is that you must do so through the persons who have been most successful in that organization, no matter how faulty the system or the organization is. To such persons, you see, it is the best of all possible organizations, because look who was selected by it ad look who succeeded most in it. Yet, these are the very people through whom we must bring about improvements. By George Washington Organization Persons Difficulties Bringing Change

The business being thus closed ... dined together and took a cordial leave of each other After which I returned to my lodgings, did some business with and received the papers from the secretary of the Convention, and retired to meditate on the momentous work which had been executed. By George Washington Closed Business Convention Dined Lodgings

They came with a Bible and their religion- stole our land, crushed our spirit ... and now tell us we should be thankful to the 'Lord' for being saved. Chief Pontiac, American Indian Chieftain By George Washington Lord Bible Religion Stole Land

It rarely happens otherwise than that a thorough-faced coquette dies in celibacy, as a punishment for her attempts to mislead others, by encouraging looks, words, or actions, given for no other purpose than to draw men on to make overtures that they may be rejected. By George Washington Words Celibacy Actions Rejected Rarely

On the dogmas of religion, as distinguished from moral principles, all mankind, from the beginning of the world to this day, have been quarreling, fighting, burning and torturing one another for abstractions unintelligible to themselves and to all others, and absolutely beyond the comprehension of the human mind. Thomas Jefferson, U.S. President, author, scientist, architect, educator, and diplomat By George Washington Fighting Religion Principles Mankind Day

Its good to live alone than to live in a bad company By George Washington Live Company Good Bad

Good company will always be found much less expensive than bad. By George Washington Good Bad Company Found Expensive

Much indeed to be regretted, party disputes are now carried to such a length, and truth is so enveloped in mist and false representation, that it is extremely difficult to know through what channel to seek it. This difficulty to one, who is of no party, and whose sole wish is to pursue with undeviating steps a path which would lead this country to respectability, wealth, and happiness, is exceedingly to be lamented. But such, for wise purposes, it is presumed, is the turbulence of human passions in party disputes, when victory more than truth is the palm contended for. By George Washington Party Regretted Length Representation Disputes

The name of American, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism ... By George Washington American Patriotism Capacity Belongs National

Citizens by birth or choice of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of American, which belongs to you, in your national capacity, must always exalt the just pride of Patriotism, more than any appellation derived from local discriminations. By George Washington Country Citizens Affections Birth Choice

In the composition of the human frame there is a good deal of inflammable matter, however dormant it may lie for a time. By George Washington Matter Time Composition Human Frame

Faith, as well intentioned as it may be, must be built on facts, not fiction- faith in fiction is a damnable false hope. Thomas Edison, American inventor By George Washington Faith Facts Hope Fiction Edison

The ways of Providence being inscrutable, and the justice of it not to be scanned by the shallow eye of humanity, nor to be counteracted by the utmost efforts of human power or wisdom, resignation, and as far as the strength of our reason and religion can carry us, a cheerful acquiescence to the Divine Will, is what we are to aim. By George Washington Resignation Providence Divine Inscrutable Humanity

It will at least be a recommendation to the proposed constitution that it is provided with more checks and barriers against the introduction of tyranny, and those of a nature less liable to be surmounted, than any government hitherto instituted among mortals hath possessed. By George Washington Tyranny Surmounted Possessed Recommendation Proposed

No people can be bound to acknowledge the invisible hand which conducts the affairs of men more than the people of the united States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency By George Washington States People Bound Acknowledge Invisible

I wish from my soul that the legislature of this State could see the policy of a gradual Abolition of Slavery. By George Washington Slavery State Abolition Soul Legislature

Give not advice without being asked, and when desired, do it briefly. By George Washington Give Asked Desired Briefly Advice

Should any American soldier be so base and infamous as to injure any Canadian or Indian in his person or property, I do most earnestly enjoin you to bring him to such severe and exemplary punishment, as the enormity of the crime may require. Should it extend to death itself, it shall not be disproportioned to its guilt, at such a time and in such a cause. By George Washington American Canadian Indian Property Punishment

Let us impart all the blessings we possess, or ask for ourselves, to the whole family of mankind. By George Washington Possess Mankind Impart Blessings Family

Require nothing unreasonable of your officers and men, but see that whatever is required be punctually complied with. Reward and punish every man according to his merit, without partiality or prejudice; hear his complaints; if well founded, redress them; if otherwise, discourage them, in order to prevent frivolous ones. Discourage vice in every shape, and impress upon the mind of every man, from the first to the lowest, the importance of the cause, and what it is they are contending for. By George Washington Require Men Discourage Unreasonable Officers

the government both in the executive and the legislative branches must carry out in good faith the platforms upon which the party was entrusted with power. But the government is that of the whole people; the party is the instrument through which policies are determined and men chosen to bring them into being. The animosities of elections should have no place in our Government, for government must concern itself alone with the common weal. By George Washington Government Party Power Executive Legislative

The arrows of malevolence ... however barbed and well pointed, never can reach the most vulnerable part of me; though, whilst I am up as a mark, they will be continually aimed. By George Washington Malevolence Arrows Pointed Whilst Mark

The inducements of interest for observing [neutral] conduct ... has been to endeavour to gain time to our country to settle and mature its yet recent institutions, and to progress without interruption, to that degree of strength and consistency, which is necessary to give it, humanly speaking, the command of its own fortunes. By George Washington Neutral Conduct Observing Institutions Interruption

O most glorious God ... Direct my thoughts, words and work, wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb, and purge my heart by thy Holy Spirit ... Daily frame me more and more into the likeness of thy Son Jesus Christ ... Thou gavest thy Son to die for me, and hast given me assurance of salvation ... By George Washington God Son Thy Glorious Lamb

Leadership is not only having a vision, but also having the courage, the discipline, and the resources to get you there. By George Washington Leadership Vision Courage Discipline Resources

I have always given it as my decided opinion that no nation had a right to intermeddle in the internal concerns of another; that every one had a right to form and adopt whatever government they liked best to live under themselves; By George Washington Decided Opinion Nation Intermeddle Internal

The eyes of all our countrymen are now upon us, and we shall have their blessings and praises, if happily we are the instruments of saving them from the tyranny meditated against them. By George Washington Praises Eyes Countrymen Blessings Happily

I conceive a knowledge of books is the basis upon which other knowledge is to be built. By George Washington Built Knowledge Conceive Books Basis

In offering to you, my countrymen, these counsels of an old and affectionate friend, I dare not hope they will make the strong and lasting impression I could wish; that they will control the usual current of the passions, or prevent our nation from running the course which has hitherto marked the destiny of nations ... moderate the fury of party spirit, to warn against the mischiefs of foreign intrigue, to guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism; this hope will be a full recompense for the solicitude for your welfare, by which they have been dictated. By George Washington Hope Countrymen Friend Passions Nation

Human rights can only be assured among a virtuous people. The general government ... can never be in danger of degenerating into a monarchy, an oligarchy, an aristocracy, or any despotic or oppresive form so long as there is any virtue in the body of the people. By George Washington Human People Assured Virtuous Government

Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all By George Washington Discipline Army Soul Formidable Procures

Nothing is a greater stranger to my breast, or a sin that my soul more abhors, than that black and detestable one, ingratitude. By George Washington Ingratitude Breast Abhors Greater Stranger

An ambassador has no need of spies; his character is always sacred. By George Washington Spies Sacred Ambassador Character

It is better to be alone than in bad company. By George Washington Company Bad

I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn into precedent. By George Washington Ground Walk Untrodden Precedent Scarcely

The scheme, my dear Marqs. which you propose as a precedent, to encourage the emancipation of the black people of this Country from that state of Bondage in wch. they are held, is a striking evidence of the benevolence of your Heart. I shall be happy to join you in so laudable a work. By George Washington Marqs Scheme Dear Country Bondage

To constitute a dispute there must be two parties. To understand it well, both parties and all the circumstances must be fully heard; and to accommodate the differences, temper and mutual forbearance are requisite. By George Washington Parties Constitute Dispute Heard Differences

We should on all Occasions avoid a general Action, or put anything to the Risque, unless compelled by a necessity, into which we ought never to be drawn. By George Washington Action Risque Occasions Necessity Drawn

The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people. By George Washington Government Republican American Liberty Deeply

Do not spare any reasonable expense to come at early and true information; always recollecting, and bearing in mind, that vague and uncertain accounts of things [are] ... more disturbing and dangerous than receiving none at all. By George Washington Information Recollecting Mind Things Spare

It is not the mere study of the Law, but to become eminent in the profession of it, which is to yield honor and profit. By George Washington Law Profit Mere Study Eminent

We ought to deprecate the hazard attending ardent and susceptible minds, from being too strongly, and too early prepossessed in favor of other political systems, before they are capable of appreciating their own. By George Washington Minds Strongly Systems Deprecate Hazard

There is nothing which can better deserve our patronage than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness. By George Washington Literature Deserve Patronage Promotion Science

I can truly say I had rather be a Mount Vernon than to be attended at the Seat of Government by the Officers of State and the Representatives of every Power in Europe. By George Washington Europe Mount Vernon Seat Government

It follows then as certain as that night succeeds the day, that without a decisive naval force we can do nothing definitive, and with it, everything honorable and glorious. By George Washington Day Definitive Glorious Night Succeeds

I rejoice that liberty ... now finds an asylum in the bosom of a regularly organized government; a government, which, being formed to secure happiness of the French people, corresponds with the ardent wishes of my heart, while it gratifies the pride of every citizen of the United States, by its resemblance to their own. By George Washington Liberty Government Rejoice States French

The government of the United States is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion. By George Washington United States Christian Sense Founded

Paper money has had the effect in your state that it will ever have, to ruin commerce, oppress the honest, and open the door to every species of fraud and injustice. By George Washington Paper Commerce Oppress Honest Injustice

To me, it appears no unjust simile to compare the affairs of this great Continent to the mechanism of a clock, each state representing some one or other of the smaller parts of it which they are endeavoring to put in fine order without considering how useless & unavailing their labor is unless the great Wheel or Spring which is to set the whole in motion is also well attended to & kept in good order. By George Washington Great Order Continent Wheel Spring

Remember, officers and soldiers, that you are fighting for the blessings of liberty. By George Washington Remember Officers Soldiers Liberty Fighting

I dare say the men would fight very well if properly officered, although they are an exceedingly dirty and nasty people. By George Washington Officered People Dare Men Fight

Ours is a kind of struggle designed, I dare say, by Providence to try the patience, fortitude, and virtue of men. None, therefore, who is engaged in it, will suffer himself, I trust, to sink under difficulties, or be discouraged by hardships. If he cannot do as he wishes, he must do what he can. By George Washington Fortitude Providence Designed Patience Men

Patience is a noble virtue, and, when rightly exercised, does not fail of its reward. By George Washington Patience Virtue Exercised Reward Noble

The benefit arising from moderate use of strong Liquor have been experienced in all Armies, and are not to be disputed. By George Washington Armies Liquor Disputed Benefit Arising

We must take human nature as we find it, perfection falls not to the share of mortals. By George Washington Perfection Mortals Human Nature Find

This would be the best of all possible worlds, if there were no religion in it. John Adams, U.S. President By George Washington President Worlds Adams Religion John

In the appointments to the great offices of the government, my aim has been to combine geographical situation, and sometimes other considerations, with abilities and fitness of known characters. By George Washington Government Situation Considerations Characters Appointments

A free people ought not only to be armed, but disciplined; to which end a uniform and well-digested plan is requisite; and their safety and interest require that they should promote such manufactories as tend to render them independent of others for essential, particularly military, supplies. By George Washington Supplies Armed Disciplined Requisite Essential

Honesty is always the best policy. By George Washington Honesty Policy

It is an old adage that honesty is the best policy-this applies to public as well as private life-to States as well as individuals. By George Washington States Individuals Adage Honesty Policythis

The turning points of lives are not the great moments. The real crises are often concealed in occurrences so trivial in appearance that they pass unobserved. By George Washington Moments Turning Points Lives Great

My first wish is to see this plague of mankind, war, banished from the earth. By George Washington War Mankind Banished Earth Plague

The very atmosphere of firearms anywhere and everywhere restrains evil interference - they deserve a place of honor with all that's good. By George Washington Interference Good Atmosphere Firearms Restrains

The whole duty of man is summed up in obedience to God's will. By George Washington God Duty Man Summed Obedience

Almighty and eternal Lord God, the great Creator of heaven and earth, and the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; look down from heaven in pity and compassion upon me thy servant, who humbly prostrate myself before thee. By George Washington Lord God Christ Creator Father

We are not to expect perfection in this world; but mankind, in modern times, have apparently made some progress in the science of government. By George Washington World Mankind Times Government Expect

The future of this nation depends on the Christian training of our youth. By George Washington Christian Youth Future Nation Depends

The value of liberty was thus enhanced in our estimation by the difficulty of its attainment, and the worth of characters appreciated by the trial of adversity. By George Washington Attainment Adversity Liberty Enhanced Estimation

Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those few be well tried before you give them your confidence. True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to appellation. By George Washington Confidence Courteous Intimate Give True

I was born a heretic. I distrust those people who know so well what God wants them to do because I notice it always coincides with their own desires. Susan B. Anthony, U.S. reformer and suffragist By George Washington Heretic Born God Anthony Desires

The policy or advantage of [immigration] taking place in a body (I mean the settling of them in a body) may be much questioned; for, by so doing, they retain the language, habits, and principles (good or bad) which they bring with them. Whereas by an intermixture with our people, they, or their descendants, get assimilated to our customs, measures, and laws: in a word, soon become one people. By George Washington Body Immigration Habits Taking Questioned

I cannot tell a lie. I cut down the cherry tree. By George Washington Lie Tree Cut Cherry

We beseech [God] to pardon our national and other transgressions ... By George Washington God Beseech Transgressions Pardon National

The advancement of agriculture, commerce and manufactures, by all proper means, will not, I trust, need recommendation. But I cannot forbear intimating to you the expediency of giving effectual encouragement as well to the introduction of new and useful inventions from abroad, as to the exertions of skill and genius in producing them at home. By George Washington Agriculture Commerce Manufactures Trust Recommendation

For the sake of humanity it is devoutly to be wished that the manly employment of agriculture and the humanizing benefits of commerce would supersede the waste of war and the rage of conquest; and the swords might be turned into ploughshares, the spears into pruning-hooks, and as the Scripture expresses it, the nations learn war no more. By George Washington War Scripture Conquest Ploughshares Pruninghooks

Agriculture is the most healthful, most useful, and most noble employment of man By George Washington Agriculture Healthful Man Noble Employment

Religion is a byproduct of fear. For much of human history, it may have been a necessary evil, but why was it more evil than necessary? Isn't killing people in the name of God a pretty good definition of insanity? Arthur C. Clarke, author By George Washington Religion Fear Byproduct Evil Clarke

Gentlemen, you will permit me to put on my spectacles, for, I have grown not only gray, but almost blind in the service of my country.- March 15, 1783 By George Washington March Gentlemen Spectacles Gray Country

It's only natural for unbridled partisanship, unrestrained by allegiance to a greater cause, to lead to chaos. By George Washington Partisanship Unrestrained Chaos Natural Unbridled

Decision making, like coffee, needs a cooling process. By George Washington Decision Making Coffee Process Cooling

If I could have entertained the slightest apprehension that the Constitution framed in the Convention where I had the honor to preside might possibly endanger the religious rights of any ecclesiastical society, certainly I would never have placed my signature to it. By George Washington Constitution Convention Society Entertained Slightest

The necessity of reciprocal checks in the exercise of political power, by dividing and distributing it into different depositories, and constituting each the guardian of the public weal against invasions by the others, has been evinced by experiments ancient and modern, some of them in our country and under our own eyes. By George Washington Power Depositories Modern Eyes Necessity

You have only one way to convince others, listen to them. By George Washington Listen Convince

You say there is but one way to worship the Great Spirit. If there is but one religion, why do you white people differ so much about it? Chief Red Jacket, Seneca Indian Chieftain By George Washington Spirit Great Worship Jacket Seneca

System to all things is the soul of business. To execute properly and act maturely is the way to conduct it to your advantage. By George Washington System Business Things Soul Advantage

A pack of jackasses led by a lion is superior to a pack of lions led by a jackass. By George Washington Pack Led Jackass Jackasses Superior

The determinations of Providence are always wise, often inscrutable; and, though its decrees appear to bear hard upon us at times, is nevertheless meant for gracious purposes. By George Washington Providence Wise Inscrutable Times Purposes

Letters of friendship require no study. By George Washington Letters Study Friendship Require

We can not guarantee success, we can strive to deserve it. By George Washington Success Guarantee Strive Deserve

It is our policy to steer clear of permanent alliances with any portion of the foreign world. By George Washington World Policy Steer Clear Permanent

I have no other view than to promote the public good, and am unambitious of honors not founded in the approbation of my Country. By George Washington Country Good View Promote Public

The true distinction ... between what is called a fine Regiment, and an indifferent one will ever, upon investigation, be found to originate in, and depend upon the care, or the inattention, of the Officers belonging to them. By George Washington Regiment Officers Distinction Investigation Care

Let vice and immorality of every kind be discouraged as much as possible in your brigade; and, as a chaplain is allowed to each regiment, see that the men regularly attend during worship. Gaming of every kind is expressly forbidden, as being the foundation of evil, and the cause of many a brave and gallant officer's and soldier's ruin. By George Washington Kind Brigade Regiment Worship Vice

Nothing is more essential, than that permanent, inveterate antipathies against particular Nations, and passionate attachments for others, should be excluded; and that, in place of them, just and amicable feelings towards all should be cultivated. By George Washington Nations Essential Permanent Inveterate Excluded

Republicanism is not the phantom of a deluded imagination. On the contrary, laws, under no form of government, are better supported, liberty and property better secured, or happiness more effectually dispensed to mankind. By George Washington Republicanism Imagination Laws Phantom Deluded

Let me ask you, sir, when is the time for brave men to exert themselves in the cause of liberty and their country, if this is not? By George Washington Sir Country Time Brave Men

The United States is in no way founded upon the Christian religion By George Washington United States Christian Religion Founded

The independence and liberty you possess are the work of joint efforts and common dangers, sufferings, and successes. By George Washington Sufferings Dangers Successes Independence Liberty

[V]irtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. By George Washington Irtue Government Morality Spring Popular

The aggregate happiness of the society, which is best promoted by the practice of a virtuous policy, is, or ought to be, the end of all government ... By George Washington Society Policy Government Aggregate Happiness

Firearms are second only to the Constitution in importance; they are the peoples' liberty's teeth By George Washington Constitution Firearms Importance Teeth Peoples

Liberty is indeed little less than a name, where the Government is too feeble to withstand the enterprises of faction, to confine each member of society within the limits prescribed by the law, and to maintain all in the secure and tranquil enjoyme By George Washington Government Liberty Faction Law Enjoyme

Overgrown military establishments, which, under any form of government, are inauspicious to liberty, and which are to be regarded as particularly hostile to Republican Liberty. By George Washington Liberty Republican Overgrown Establishments Government

Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused to licentiousness. By George Washington Arbitrary Licentiousness Power Easily Established

Liberty, when it degrades into licentiousness, begets confusion, and frequently ends in tyranny or some woeful confusion. By George Washington Liberty Confusion Licentiousness Begets Degrades

[T]here is no truth more thoroughly established, than that there exists ... an indissoluble union between virtue and happiness. By George Washington Established Exists Truth Happiness Indissoluble

It will be found an unjust and unwise jealousy to deprive a man of his natural liberty upon the supposition he may abuse it. By George Washington Found Unjust Unwise Jealousy Deprive

What a triumph for the advocates of despotism to find that we are incapable of governing ourselves, and that systems founded on the basis of equal liberty are merely ideal and fallacious. By George Washington Fallacious Triumph Advocates Despotism Find

The alternate domination of one faction over another, sharpened by the spirit of revenge, natural to party dissension, which in different ages and countries has perpetrated the most horrid enormities, is itself a frightful despotism. But this leads at length to a more formal and permanent despotism. The disorders and miseries, which result, gradually incline the minds of men to seek security and repose in the absolute power of an individual; and sooner or later the chief of some prevailing faction, more able or more fortunate than his competitors, turns this disposition to the purposes of his own elevation, on the ruins of Public Liberty. By George Washington Despotism Sharpened Revenge Natural Dissension

Interwoven as is the love of liberty with every ligament of your hearts, no recommendation of mine is necessary to fortify or confirm the attachment. By George Washington Interwoven Hearts Attachment Love Liberty

LIBERTY, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth. By George Washington Liberty Root Growth Begins Plant

Interwoven is the love of liberty with every ligament of the heart. By George Washington Interwoven Heart Love Liberty Ligament

Individuals entering into society, must give up a share of liberty to preserve the rest. By George Washington Individuals Society Rest Entering Give

Paper money will invariably operate in the body of politics as spirit liquors on the human body. They prey on the vitals and ultimately destroy them By George Washington Body Paper Money Invariably Operate

[T]he first transactions of a nation, like those of an individual upon his first entrance into life make the deepest impression, and are to form the leading traits in its character. By George Washington Nation Impression Character Transactions Individual

The people must remain ever vigilant against tyrants masquerading as public servants. By George Washington Servants People Remain Vigilant Tyrants

The foundation of our Empire was not laid in the gloomy age of Ignorance and Superstition, but at an Epoch when the rights of mankind were better understood and more clearly defined, than at any former period. By George Washington Superstition Empire Ignorance Epoch Defined

A free people ought ... to be armed By George Washington Free People Armed

Creationists make it sound like a 'theory' is something you dreamt up after being drunk all night. Isaac Asimov, Russian-born American author By George Washington Theory Creationists Night Asimov Russianborn

My opinion with respect to immigration is, that except of useful mechanics and some particular description of men and professions, there is no use of encouragement. By George Washington Professions Encouragement Opinion Respect Immigration

If Christ were here now there is one thing he would not be a Christian. Samuel Clemens "Mark Twain", American author and humorist By George Washington Christian Christ Clemens Mark Twain

I will move gently down the stream of life until I sleep with my fathers. By George Washington Fathers Move Gently Stream Life

Let experience solve it. To listen to mere speculation in such a case were criminal. By George Washington Experience Solve Criminal Listen Mere

To the efficacy and permanency of your union a government for the whole is indispensable. By George Washington Indispensable Efficacy Permanency Union Government

Things in life will not always run smoothly. Sometimes we will be rising toward the heights - then all will seem to reverse itself and start downward. The great fact to remember is that the trend of civilization itself is forever upward; that a line drawn through the middle of the peaks and the valleys of the centuries always has an upward trend. By George Washington Things Smoothly Life Run Trend

Sympathy for the favorite nation, facilitating the illusion of an imaginary common interest in cases where no real common interest exists, and infusing into one the enmities of the other, betrays the former into a participation in the quarrels and wars of the latter without adequate inducement or justification. By George Washington Common Interest Sympathy Nation Facilitating

Your proposal raises the greatest mischief that can befall my country. You could not have found a person to whom your schemes are more disagreeable. Let me conjure you then, if you have any regard for your country, concern for your self or posterity, or respect for me, to banish these thoughts from your mind, never communicate, as from yourself, or anyone else, a sentiment of the like nature. By George Washington Country Proposal Raises Greatest Mischief

I anticipate with pleasing expectations that retreat in which I promise myself to realize, without alloy, the sweet enjoyment of partaking, in the midst of my fellow citizens, the benign influence of good laws under a free government, the ever favorite object of my heart, and the happy reward, as I trust, of our mutual cares, labors, and dangers. By George Washington Labors Realize Alloy Partaking Citizens

Jealousy, and local policy mix too much in all our public councils for the good government of the Union. In a words, the confederation appears to me to be little more than a shadow without the substance ... By George Washington Union Jealousy Local Policy Mix

Should the States reject this excellent Constitution, the probability is, an opportunity will never again offer to cancel another in peacethe next will be drawn in blood. By George Washington Constitution States Blood Reject Excellent

I am now ... on a subject, which fills me with inexpressible concern ... But as it has been a kind of destiny, that has thrown me upon this service, I shall hope that my undertaking it is designed to answer some good purpose. By George Washington Subject Concern Destiny Service Purpose

The foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principle of private morality. By George Washington Morality Foundation National Policy Laid

The alternate triumphs of different parties ... make the public administration the mirror of the ill-concerted and incongruous projects of faction, rather than the organ of consistent and wholesome plans digested by common counsels. By George Washington Parties Alternate Triumphs Make Faction

Let me now ... warn you in the most solemn manner against the baneful effects of the spirit of party ... The common and continual mischiefs of the spirit of party are sufficient to make it the interest and duty of a wise people to discourage and restrain it. It serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms; kindles the animosity of one part against another ... In governments purely elective, it [the spirit of party] is a spirit not to be encouraged. By George Washington Spirit Party Public Warn Solemn

[The spirit of party] serves always to distract the public councils and enfeeble the public administration. It agitates the community with ill-founded jealousies and false alarms, kindles the animosity of one part against another. By George Washington Public Party Serves Administration Spirit

It would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being Who rules over the universe, Who presides in the councils of nations, and Whose providential aids can supply every human defect ... By George Washington Almighty Universe Nations Defect Peculiarly

Let us therefore rely on the goodness of the cause, and the aid of the supreme Being, in whose hands victory is, to animate and encourage us to great and noble actions. By George Washington Actions Rely Goodness Aid Supreme

Though, when a people shall have become incapable of governing themselves and fit for a master, it is of little consequence from what quarter he comes. By George Washington Master People Incapable Governing Fit

We must consult our means rather than our wishes. By George Washington Wishes Consult

If they are good workmen, they may be of Asia, Africa, or Europe. They may be Mohometans, Jews or Christians of any Sect, or they may be Atheists. By George Washington Africa Asia Europe Workmen Good

Refrain from drink which is the source of all evil-and the ruin of half the workmen in this Country. By George Washington Country Refrain Drink Source Eviland

The investigation of mathematical truths accustoms the mind to method and correctness in reasoning, and is an employment peculiarly worthy of rational beings. By George Washington Reasoning Investigation Mathematical Truths Accustoms

Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge. In proportion as the structure of a government gives force to public opinion, it is essential that public opinion should be enlightened. By George Washington Promote Importance Institutions Knowledge Object

Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle. By George Washington Religion Morality Caution Indulge Supposition

No compact among men ... can be pronounced everlasting and inviolable, and if I may so express myself, that no Wall of words, that no mound of parchment can be so formed as to stand against the sweeping torrent of boundless ambition on the one side, aided by the sapping current of corrupted morals on the other. By George Washington Men Compact Wall Inviolable Words

The friendship I have conceived will not be impaired by absence; but it may be no unpleasing circumstance to brighten the chain by a renewal of the covenant. By George Washington Absence Covenant Friendship Conceived Impaired

It was not my intention to doubt that, the Doctrines of the Illuminati, and principles of Jacobinism had not spread in the United States. On the contrary, no one is more truly satisfied of this fact than I am. By George Washington Illuminati States Doctrines Jacobinism United

I had always hoped that this land might become a safe and agreeable asylum to the virtuous and persecuted part of mankind, to whatever nation they might belong. By George Washington Mankind Belong Hoped Land Safe

Character enough of an opposite description ... My opinion is ... that you could as soon scrub the blackamore white, as to change the principles of a profest Democrat; and that he will leave nothing unattempted to overturn the Government of this Country. By George Washington Character Description Opposite Democrat Country

Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation deserts the oaths ... ? By George Washington Property Reputation Life Oaths Security

Life is always uncertain, and common prudence dictates to every man the necessity of settling his temporal concerns, while it is in his power, and while the mind is calm and undisturbed. By George Washington Life Uncertain Concerns Power Undisturbed

We should not look back unless it is to derive useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dearly bought experience. By George Washington Errors Experience Back Derive Lessons

True friendship is a plant of slow growth, and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity, before it is entitled to the appellation. By George Washington True Growth Adversity Appellation Friendship

This Government, the offspring of your own choice, uninfluenced and unawed, adopted upon full investigation and mature deliberation, completely free in its principles, in the distribution of its powers, uniting security with energy, and containing within itself a provision for its own amendment, has a just claim to your confidence and your support. By George Washington Government Choice Uninfluenced Unawed Adopted

At this auspicious period, the United States came into existence as a Nation; and if their Citizens should not be completely free and happy, the fault will be entirely their own. By George Washington Nation United States Citizens Period

My policy has been, and will continue to be, while I have the honor to remain in the administration of the government, to be upon friendly terms with, but independent of, all the nations of the earth. To share in the broils of none. To fulfil our own engagements. To supply the wants, and be carriers for them all: Being thoroughly convinced that it is our policy and interest to do so. By George Washington Government Earth Continue Honor Remain

Even respectable characters speak of a monarchical form of government without horror. By George Washington Horror Respectable Characters Speak Monarchical

What was done with the seed saved from the India Hemp last summer? It ought, all of it, to have been sewn again; that not only a stock of seed sufficient for my own purposes might have been raised, but to have disseminated the seed to others; as it is more valuable than the common Hemp. By George Washington India Hemp Seed Summer Saved

But lest some unlucky event should happen unfavorable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered by every gentleman in the room that I this day declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the command I am honored with. By George Washington