We are not exciting rebellion. Opposition, nay, open, avowed resistance by arms against usurpation and lawless violence, is not rebellion by the law of God or the land.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Armed resistance against illegal seizure and violence is not considered rebellion under divine or civil law.
- In plain terms
- Violent opposition to unlawful takeover isn’t true rebellion.
- What can you take from it?
- Distinguish lawful defense from unlawful rebellion.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does resistance become rebellion?
- Who decides what is lawful?
Another view
Interpretations of what counts as rebellion can vary.
More from John Adams
In my many years I have come to a conclusion that one useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, and three or more is a congress.
Permalink to quote #88 Property must be secured or liberty cannot exist.
Permalink to quote #90 Examine the struggle to not only establish a free republic, but to give it the economic strength and governmental structure that would allow it to prosper.
Permalink to quote #87
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