Equal and exact justice to all men, of whatever state or persuasion, religious or political; peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none...Freedom of religion; freedom of the press, and freedom of person under the protection of the habeus corpus, and trial by juries impartially selected. These principles form the bright constellation which has gone before us, and guided our steps through an age of revolution and reformation. The wisdom of our sages and the blood of our heroes have been devoted to their attainment. They should be the creed of our political faith, the text of civil instruction, the touchstone by which we try the services of those we trust; and should we wander from them in moments of error or alarm, let us hasten to retrace our steps and to regain the road which alone leads to peace, liberty, and safety.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Jefferson lists core democratic principles including justice, peace, liberty, and freedom of religion and press as guiding ideals.
- In plain terms
- Justice, liberty, and free press should guide the nation.
- What can you take from it?
- Uphold democratic freedoms and justice.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Which freedom is most vital?
- How do we protect these principles?
Another view
The list idealizes principles that face practical challenges.
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