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The liberties of our Country, the freedom of our civil constitution are worth defending at all hazards: And it is our duty to defend them against all attacks. We have receiv'd them as a fair Inheritance from our worthy Ancestors: They purchas'd them for us with toil and danger and expence of treasure and blood; and transmitted them to us with care and diligence. It will bring an everlasting mark of infamy on the present generation, enlightened as it is, if we should suffer them to be wrested from us by violence without a struggle; or be cheated out of them by the artifices of false and designing men. Of the latter we are in most danger at present: Let us therefore be aware of it. Let us contemplate our forefathers and posterity; and resolve to maintain the rights bequeath'd to us from the former, for the sake of the latter. - Instead of sitting down satisfied with the efforts we have already made, which is the wish of our enemies, the necessity of the times, more than ever, calls for our utmost circumspection, deliberation, fortitude, and perseverance. Let us remember that 'if we suffer tamely a lawless attack upon our liberty, we encourage it, and involve others in our doom.' It is a very serious consideration, which should deeply impress our minds, that millions yet unborn may be the miserable sharers of the event.

Samuel Adams#5

FreedomPatriotismDutyResistance

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author argues that defending civil liberties is a duty owed to ancestors who paid for them with sacrifice, and failing to resist their loss through force or deception brings shame.
In plain terms
We must fight to keep the freedoms our ancestors earned for us, or we will be remembered dishonorably.
What can you take from it?
Defend your inherited rights against all threats.

Where it applies

  • political threats
  • generational responsibility

Putting it to work

  • advocate for civil rights
  • teach history of freedom

Questions to consider

  • What rights do you owe to future generations?
  • How much are you willing to sacrifice for freedom?

Another view

It assumes that violent resistance is the only or best way to preserve liberty.

More from Samuel Adams

  1. The truth is, all might be free if they valued freedom, and defended it as they ought.

    Permalink to quote #4
  2. Among the natural rights of the Colonists are these: First, a right to life; Secondly, to liberty; Thirdly, to property; together with the right to support and…

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. If you, or Colonel Dalrymple under you, have the power to remove one regiment you have the power to remove both. It is at your peril if you refuse. The meeting…

    Permalink to quote #3

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